Land Use

Overview                                                                                                                                                                                      

Our Land Use practice is a cross-disciplinary group of lawyers, professional planners, and environmental analysts that focuses its combined resources on the interrelated fields of planning, land use law, and real estate development. We provide legal services to a wide variety of clients, including property owners, real estate developers and investors, commercial and industrial users, and government entities. Our practice is based upon an extensive knowledge of land use law and procedure, as well as practical experience gained from decades of working with clients on challenging and complex matters across the country. Members of our land use practice have become leaders in the profession and enjoy national reputations for being on the cutting edge of land use law and practice. We frequently appear before reviewing bodies at the federal, state, and local levels, enabling us to gain the most up-to-date knowledge about procedures, personalities, and trends in the law.

Our Services

Our team is committed to delivering excellent, high-level service to our clients by promptly responding to their needs. We offer a variety of critical path services, including the following examples:

  • development permitting for complicated projects that involve multiple levels of government review
  • high-stakes litigation arising out of government decision-making controlling real estate development
  • integrating land use strategies with real estate financing, ownership, and development structures
  • due diligence review and analysis of individual sites and portfolios of properties for real estate acquisition and financing

Our experience cuts across virtually all areas of land use practice, including the following:

  • affordable housing
  • brownfields redevelopment
  • coastal development and permitting
  • common interest ownership communities
  • development agreements
  • endangered species habitat
  • environmental impact review
  • floodplain regulation
  • form-based codes
  • government economic incentives for development
  • historic preservation and adaptive reuse
  • mixed-use projects
  • parking agreements
  • property tax appeals
  • public-private partnerships
  • religious rights and land use
  • regulation and ordinance drafting
  • takings, property rights, and condemnations
  • tax increment financing
  • traffic planning and regulation
  • transit-oriented development
  • subdivision regulation
  • utilities and infrastructure
  • wetlands and waterways permitting
  • zoning regulation

Our Team

The core of our land use practice consists of lawyers in the Real Estate + Development Group. We work regularly with members of the Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group and the Construction Group. We also work with lawyers in the firm's Business Litigation Group on complex litigation matters, including actions in state and federal court. We collaborate with architects, engineers, and business professionals on multidisciplinary teams to create successful strategies for our clients. Robinson+Cole lawyers have taken leadership roles on some of the largest, most exciting development projects in the region.

Industry Leadership

Our lawyers are active in numerous regional and national industry and professional organizations, including these:

  • the American Bar Association’s Section of State and Local Government Law, Section of Environment, Energy and Resources and Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law
  • the American Planning Association
  • the Congress for the New Urbanism              
  • the International Council of Shopping Centers
  • the International Municipal Lawyers Association
  • the National Association for Industrial and Office Parks
  • the Urban Land Institute
  • the Wildlife Conservation Society
  • the World Jurist Association

We hold leadership positions in many of these organizations, including committee chairs and board memberships.

    • Experience

      • Counsel to the nation's leading wireless telecommunications provider before the Connecticut Siting Council and Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) in connection with the installation of wireless facilities throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. Draft legislation relating to the application and approval process of wireless facilities and provide legal support as it relates to real estate matters. 

      • Counseled client in the due diligence, risk and liability management, acquisition, remediation, permitting, construction contracting, and development of a brownfield coastal peninsula into a global development facility for the world's largest pharmaceutical company. Click here for the "before" photo of the former mixed-use manufacturing facility and the "after" photo of the $250 million Global Research and Development Facility and office complex.
      • Represented a waterfront fuel oil terminal owner in the investigation, negotiation of alternative clean standards, remediation, and structuring of transaction to sell and converted the terminal to upscale residential apartments. Click here for the "before" and "after" photos.

      • Served as special counsel under the direction of the New Jersey Attorney General's office to the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission (formerly known as the Hackensack Meadowlands Development Commission), an agency of the State of New Jersey which owns, or will acquire, an area in excess of 1,000 acres.

      • Obtained federal, state, and local permits for a 1.3 million-square-foot distribution center in Bloomfield, Connecticut.

      • Drafted new zoning regulation and obtained local permits for the adaptive reuse of a nineteenth-century mill complex to mixed-use development in Canton, Connecticut.

      • Coordinated federal, state, and local project permitting for over twenty new or expanded supermarkets in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York.

      • Represent natural gas pipeline relative to permitting and compliance issues associated with repair and expansion.

      • Represented group home provider in Fair Housing Act defense against enforcement actions by the City of New London, Connecticut.
      • Represented client before local boards in permitting for the installation of wireless communications antennae and equipment on new and existing structures.
      • Represented telecommunications company before local boards in connection with controversial communications tower projects.
      • Represented client in all aspects of litigation involving appeals from administrative decisions regarding development permits for wireless communications facilities.

      • Managed the land use permitting for Bridgeport, Connecticut’s sports and entertainment complex, referred to as the Arena and Transit Garage at HarborYard®, and assisted the city in complying with the requirements of the Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

      • Assisted client in obtaining zoning amendments to allow an active adult traditional neighborhood development in Madison, Connecticut.

      • Represented the City of New Haven in an appeal to the Connecticut Supreme Court that challenged the City’s use of planned development districts, a tool used in creating flexible zoning arrangements. The Court ruled that planned development districts were permissible and that the City’s zoning enabling legislation was sufficiently broad to enable their use. Robinson+Cole attorneys researched and authored the brief on behalf of the City and argued the case at the Connecticut Supreme Court.

      • Assisted developer with redevelopment of brownfield, a former steel manufacturing facility, including remediation, lease negotiations, and obtaining environmental remediation cost cap insurance.

      • Assisted redeveloper with environmental investigation and remediation issues arising in the development of a corporate complex in South Norwalk, Connecticut.

      • Represented client in all aspects of due diligence, risk management, permitting, site remediation, the transaction, and development of a $250 million global development facility.

      • Robinson+Cole represented the owner of a 100+ year-old arms manufacturing facility on initial strategic site investigations and cost recovery negotiations with past owners for the clean-up of oil, metal and solvent contamination.

        • Planning and Zoning

      • Challenge to and Defense of Zoning Regulations and Zoning Maps

        Our land use attorneys are often called upon to craft new regulations to facilitate a development project, take advantage of market trends, extract new value from, or protect, a piece of property. On behalf of developers, we have successfully defended changes in zoning district boundaries and the creation of new zoning districts. We also have experience defending municipal agencies in creating new zoning regulations. We also have experience challenging improperly adopted zoning changes.

        Representative Case:

        Campion v. Aldermen of City of New Haven, 278 Conn. 500 (2006).

      • Appeals from the Grant or Denial of Special Permits and Site Plans

        Zoning authorities often require special permits and site plans for particular uses. Sometimes these uses are controversial, resulting in litigation. We have successfully defended these permits on behalf of municipalities and developers for uses as diverse as billboards, supermarkets, and multifamily housing.

        Representative Cases:

        Hill v. Zoning Board of Appeals of Upton: Successfully defended site plan approval on behalf of applicant for expansion of communications site – Land Court Reporter, upheld without opinion – Mass. App. Ct.

        River Bend Associates, Inc. v. Zoning Commission of Town of Simsbury, 271 Conn. 1 (2004)

      • Subdivisions

        We have defended developers, municipalities, and other interested parties in bring or defending appeals from municipal subdivision decisions.

        Representative Case:

        Herman v. Redding Planning Commission, 2003 Conn. Super. LEXIS 843.

      • Variances

        We have represented developers, zoning boards of appeals, and other interested parties in defending and challenging zoning variance decisions.

        Representative Case:

        Dennehy v. Tobin, 59 Mass. App. Ct. 2008 (2003): Challenge to grant of variance for cell tower dismissed on standing grounds.

        • Wetlands and Environmental Permits

      • We have experience representing property owners, municipal boards, abutters, and other interested parties in judicial appeals from local wetland approvals. Brian Smith, one of our Land Use attorneys, participated in the Connecticut case which established the right of environmental intervenors to take appeals of agency decisions in that State.

        Representative Case:

        Branhaven v. Branford Inland Wetlands Commission, 251 Conn. 269 (1999)

      • We have experience representing citizens seeking to protect inland wetlands from destruction and illegal development activity. Edward V. O'Hanlan, one of our land use attorneys, successfully argued the Connecticut Supreme Court in 2007 to uphold the rights of private citizens, in addition to municipal officials and agencies, to enforce local inland wetlands regulation to stop illegal activity and destruction of valuable wetland resources.

        Representative Case:

        Windels v. Environmental Protection Commission of the Town of Darien – CT – 284 Conn 268 (2007)

        Conservation Commission v. Red Eleven LLC, J. D. of Bridgeport, #CV-04-4001044-S

        • Condemnations and Takings

      • Governments sometimes take private property, either intentionally through formal condemnation proceedings or unintentionally through over-regulation, which may be the basis for a claim of “inverse” condemnation. We have represented municipalities in defending condemnations, as well as individual property owners in challenging condemnation awards. We have also represented developers and homeowners in raising regulatory takings claims against land use authorities. Brian Blaesser, a partner in the firm, is a recognized national authority in takings jurisprudence, and have also written extensively on the subject. Mr. Blaesser is co-author of the book, Federal Land Use Law & Litigation (Thomson-West: 2007).

        Representative Cases:

        Pearl Investment Co. v. City & County of San Francisco, 774 F. 2d 1460 (9th Cir. 1985)

        Barancik v. County of Marin, 872 F.2d 834 (9th Cir. 1988)

        Hall v. State ex rel. South Dakota Dept. of Transp., 712 N.W.2d 22 (S.D.2006)

        Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council, 501 U.S. 1003, 112 S. Ct. 2886 (1992) (Authored American Planning Association amicus brief)

        Town of Branford v. Santa Barbara, et al., J.D. of Waterbury Complex Litigation Docket No. UWY-X0l-CV-044010333 Memorandum of Decision August 3, 2007 (Cremins, J.)

        • Affordable Housing

      • Many states have enacted legislation to preempt local zoning controls and mandate the permitting of affordable housing. We have represented municipalities and citizen groups in successfully defending such denials of such developments, where they pose actual threats to public health and safety. We have also worked with developers to advance affordable housing.

        Representative Cases:

        Woburn Board of Appeals v. Housing Appeals Committee et al, Mass. Superior Court, Civ. Nos. 05-04500, 03-03320, 03-04796 ((November 29, 2006)

        Avalonbay Communities, Inc. v. Stratford Zoning Commission, CV-02-0513808, (Memorandum of Decision July 20, 2004 (Bryant, J.)), app. dismissed – Conn. – (October 2, 2007)

        City of Edmonds v. Oxford House, Inc., 514 U.S. 725 (1995) (authored amicus brief on behalf of Oxford House, Inc.)

        • Property Rights

      • The Land Use Group also has experience in prosecuting and defending property claims, including:

        Quiet Title/Adverse Possession

        Representative Cases:

        Bradford v. Kimmerle, J.D. of New London at Norwich, #CV-97-00113078 (Memorandum of Decision July 11, 1999 (Hurley, J.))

        Mark B. Fox v. Christine Carter, et al., J.D. of Hartford, #CV-99-0593777-S

        Highstead Foundation, Inc. v. Fahan, J.D. of Danbury, #CV-04-4000554-S

         

        Riparian Rights

        Representative Cases:

        Oak Leaf Marina, Inc. v. Ertel, 23 Conn. App. 91, 93-94, cert. denied 216 Conn. 827 (1990).

        Harboredge Development Corp. v. Renehan, CV-83-073363, (Conn. Super., Feb. 26, 1985).

        Caminis v. Troy, FST-CV-05-4007029-S, 43 Conn. L. Rptr. No. 17, p. 622 (Conn. Super., June 14, 2007)

         

        Nuisance

        Representative Case:

        Petsey v. Coleman, 259 Conn. 345 (2002)

         

        Trespass

        Representative Case:

        Lamphere v. Marshall, CV-03-0565003S, Superior Court, Judicial District of New London

        • Property Tax Appeals

      • The Land Use Group has experience in appealing tax assessments on behalf of property owners, as well as defending assessments on behalf of towns.

        Representative Case:

        Sheridan v. Town of Killingly, 278 Conn. 252, 897 A.2d 90 (2006)

        • Tax Appeal

      • Sheridan v. Town of Killingly
        278 Conn. 252, 897 A.2d 90 (2006)
        Successfully represented Town in overturning lower court ruling and requiring valuation of a leasehold interest in real property.

        • Other Experiences

      • Defended marina owners and operator from Notice of Violation issued by the Connecticut DEEP and successfully negotiated resolution that permitted all existing structures.

      • Successfully represented waterfront owners, developers, and marinas before state agencies, including contested cases, related to permits and approvals for docks and other structures. 

      • Successfully assisted waterfront homeowner in effort to have Connecticut DEEP reverse its position and allow a longer dock at homeowner's property.

      • Represented limited liability company that owned waterfront land in residential area. Client sought to obtain a permit to install a dock on its land from Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection. Neighbors mounted a vigorous opposition to the dock and forced DEP to hold a public hearing on the application. Represented client throughout public hearing process, including prehearing conferences and through hearing itself. Successfully opposed neighbors’ attempt to intervene as parties in the hearing. Obtained agreement of DEP staff to submit joint proposed findings to hearing officer and secured permit for client shortly after the hearing was concluded.

      • Represented waterfront homeowner in negotiating and drafting a littoral boundary line agreement with a neighboring marina.

      • Successfully represented marina before Connecticut DEEP to oppose proposed expansion of neighboring marina that would have impeded access to client's marina.

      • Successfully represented homeowners in application to obtain zoning variance on the grounds that addition to home was necessary to comply with adoption regulations and that inability to have children naturally was a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act, thus requiring a reasonable accommodation in the town application of its zoning ordinance.

      • Represented condominium association in its successful application for a special use permit to enlarge the condominium by adding new buildings and units.

      • Represented waterfront homeowner in contested hearing before Connecticut DEP and obtained permit for dock that was opposed by neighbor.

      • Represented shoreline beach community before municipal planning and zoning commission to secure special use permits for sewer and water systems.

      • Successfully represented operator of group homes for recovering substance abusers in application for zoning permits for group home in residential district.
      • Successfully litigated trespass and nuisance case on behalf of lakefront property owner against upland neighbor who illegally maintained mooring in client's littoral rights area, securing money damages and injunctive relief.

      • Representation of the Housing Authority of the City of New London in a rent receivership action brought by Northeast Utilities, resulting in a series of forbearance agreements and a payment plan. Robinson+Cole also negotiated agreements between the authority and the City of New London regarding payments in lieu of taxes and water and sewer charges. The litigation in each of these cases exceeded $250K.

      • Assisted client with residential dock approval that was derailed by the presence of a mooring near his shoreline. Convinced the state commission responsible for management of the waterway to relocate the mooring and support the client's dock proposal. Also garnered support of the Army Corps of Engineers.
      • Represented client in controversial proposal to rebuild pedestrian bridge between two islands off the Connecticut shore and in applications to obtain official authorizations for preexisting docks on the two islands. Successfully argued that, although not a typical coastal activity, the rebuilding of the bridge, which was destroyed in the 1938 hurricane, was an authorized use under the applicable coastal management statutes and a valid exercise of the client's littoral rights.

      • After client was served with a notice of violation from the Connecticut DEEP for maintaining what it considered an unauthorized marina, negotiated a resolution that allowed the client to operate the property as a fully licensed marina, without penalties or fines. Also drafted cross easements to allow the marina to operate in the littoral area of an abutting waterfront residential property and to allow the residential property owner to use one of the marina's slips.

      • Represented a cellular telephone tower company in a real property partition action. The client had a leasehold interest and right of first refusal on property that was the subject of litigation between family members to force the sale of multiple tracts of land owned by many family members. Preserved client's interests and avoided unnecessary entanglement in the litigation.

      • Representation of Mianus Marine, Inc., landlord/seller, in ground lease with preset purchase price after 10 years for valuable waterfront marina and boatyard in Greenwich, Connecticut. The lease included ground rent resets and step ups in price for earlier purchase after five years. This format was necessary to adjust corporate status of client (ground landlord) for tax treatment on capital gain. The value was in excess of $10 million. The scope is primarily local water-dependent land use approvals with State of Connecticut coastal management by the Department of Environmental Protection and federal channel management and tidal regulations by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
      • Representation of landowners pro hac vice in South Dakota inverse condemnation case in securing from the South Dakota Supreme Court a reversal of a summary judgment by the trial court in a takings claim against the state for the movement of an interchange that had severely impacted their truck stop business.

      • Obtained all approvals on behalf of client, a subdivision developer, and successfully defended approved subdivision before Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and before Land Court, in an abutter appeal on title issues concerning implied easement for subdivision access road.

      • Represented property owner in successful application for a use variance to reconstruct an historic mill on his residential property. The use variance was required to allow the use of the reconstructed mill to hold the client's musical instrument manufacturing business.

      • Represented owner of land along tidal creek bordered by deteriorating wooden bulkhead. Small tidal wetlands area with limited ecological value had developed behind the bulkhead in areas where the land had eroded due to stormwater runoff and tidal-influenced erosion. Client obtained permit from Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to reconstruct bulkhead, fill tidal wetlands behind bulkhead, and plant a new wetland area, which would allow the property to be subdivided into two buildable lots.

      • Represented regional community hospital in application to develop a 40,000-square-foot cancer facility. Necessary approvals included site plan, inland wetland permit, and coordinated approvals from water pollution control authorities of adjacent towns.

      • Represented coastal property owner in application to build extension of existing dock into waters of harbor so that there was a greater depth at which to berth his boat at low tide. Approvals were required from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, as well as the Army Corps of Engineers, who had authority over the federal navigation project in the harbor. The approval from the DEEP also required the recording of a shared dock agreement for the property and the neighboring property owned by the same owner.

      • Represented condominium developer in application to town to amend zoning regulations pertaining to gross floor area as applied in Special Flood Hazard Areas, as mapped by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The new regulation provided that areas under residential buildings elevated to comply with FEMA flood-proofing requirements was not counted toward gross floor area.
      • Represented shorefront property owner in application for variance to rebuild house destroyed by Hurricane Irene. Provided expert testimony before zoning board of appeals on issues concerning impact of variance to town's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

      • Represented shorefront property owner in application to Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for permit to rebuild house damaged by Hurricane Irene. Successfully argued that client's house had predated the passage of coastal management statutes in Connecticut and was thus eligible for permit under the simpler certificate of permission program.

      • Representation of a private developer in a Connecticut Supreme Court case in defense of the right of a Connecticut town to rezone a development project by way of a traditional neighborhood design ordinance. The court dismissed action for declaratory and injunctive relief from residents based on lack of standing regarding allegations that the development violated a neighborhood ordinance claim and injuries arising from conveyance of public land to a private developer.
      • Representation of Waterson Terminal Services, LLC as terminal port manager for ProvPort in negotiating and drafting various contracts related to land use and stevedoring operations at the Port of Providence, the municipal port of the City of Providence. ProvPort is a nonprofit public-private partnership, which owns and operates Port of Providence.
      • Representation of a development company in all federal, state and local permitting for a $250 million golf course community development project on a 1,000-acre parcel in Old Saybrook, Essex and Westbrook, Connecticut. Parcel is the largest remaining contiguous coastal plain property in Connecticut with a unique landscape in a high value area. Represented client in multiple appeals and in redesigned project.
      • Represented a private financial/holdings company in connection with the disposition or redevelopment of property located at 300 to 310 Wilson Avenue in Norwalk. This representation included advice on local regulatory matters and a review of the permitting necessary for redevelopment.

      • Represented a regional lender providing a $9 million construction loan for the development of 40 multifamily low-income units in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on property being ground leased from a local nonprofit organization. Negotiated complex matters related to the amendment of the ground lease and zoning and permitting issues to ensure development could be successfully constructed within local development regulations.

      • Assisted hundreds of applicants with the approval of their private or publicly-funded development projects after ensuring consistency with local and state land use regulations and smart growth planning principles.

      • Worked side-by-side with a planning consultant firm to update a municipality’s 2020 Plan of Conservation and Development in western Connecticut.

      • Spearheaded the approval of an approximately 6,000-acre section of coastal land to be preserved in perpetuity in central coastal California.

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    • News
      • August 17, 2023

        78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024

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          78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024

          78 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024. Of the 78 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 57 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law. Approximately, the top 5 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

          Additionally, five lawyers were named Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” in the following offices, in the noted practice areas:

          Hartford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Jacqueline Pennino Scheib – Trademark Law

          Michael R. Enright – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law

          Theodore J. Tucci – Insurance Law

          Boston, MA – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Michael S. Giaimo – Land Use and Zoning Law

          Stamford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Patricia D. Weitzman – Health Care Law and Litigation-Health Care

          A Best Lawyers “Lawyer of the Year” designation is awarded to one lawyer in each of various high-profile specialties in large legal communities. These particular lawyers received the highest ratings among their peers for their abilities, professionalism, and integrity.

          The fourth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America was also released, which includes 23 Robinson+Cole lawyers. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys early in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. The firm has the highest number of lawyers to receive this designation in Hartford, Connecticut. Read more in the press release.

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      • July 12, 2023

        Robinson+Cole Represents WinnDevelopment in $85 Million Dollar Affordable Housing Project

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          Robinson+Cole Represents WinnDevelopment in $85 Million Dollar Affordable Housing Project

          On July 10, 2023, Robinson+Cole client, WinnDevelopment, broke ground on an $85 million project to transform a nationally recognized historic structure, the old Landers, Frary and Clark manufacturing complex in New Britain, CT, into a 154-unit apartment community for affordable housing and workforce households. 

          A cross-disciplinary team of R+C lawyers and professionals helped Winn navigate the acquisition, tax credit syndication, debt financing and environmental issues that accompany the redevelopment of a historic factory building. The team included Michele Maresca as lead attorney with support from Deirdre Robinson, Emilee Mooney Scott, Bomopregha Julius, Austin Provost, Madeleine Laffitte, Christopher Schaut and Vee Kaur.

          When Deirdre joined R+C in 2021, she brought with her, her long-time client, WinnCompanies, an award-winning national developer and manager of affordable, mixed-income and market rate apartment communities with a strong history of leveraging Federal and State tax credits to enable redevelopment of otherwise challenged properties. 

          This adaptive reuse project will convert four buildings into 79 one-bedroom, 59 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom apartments geared toward young professionals, middle-income households and fixed-income seniors. The historic exterior of the brick buildings will be preserved, while the interior space is adapted into apartments for households earning 30, 50, 60 and 80 percent of Area Median Income

          Financing for this project includes numerous sources of debt and equity, including federal LIHTC equity and, with the help of Eversource, State historic tax credit equity. Bank of America provided taxable construction financing and CHFA provided a long-term tax-exempt bond loan. Other sources of debt came from the Connecticut Department of Housing, HUD, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and the City of New Britain.

      • December 22, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Elects Five Partners

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          Robinson+Cole Elects Five Partners

          Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Benjamin M. Daniels, Andrew A. DePeau, Sandra Marin Lautier, Kathryn M. Rattigan and Evan J. Seeman as Partners, effective January 1, 2023. The new partners reflect Robinson+Cole’s continued strategic growth in key areas, including business and bankruptcy litigation, data privacy and security and real estate and development.

          “Congratulations to this outstanding group of lawyers on their well-deserved promotion,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “They exemplify the excellent talent driving our firm’s sustained growth and are strong contributors to our clients, firm and communities.” Read more in the press release.

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      • December 13, 2022

        Boston Magazine Names Six R+C Lawyers as Top Lawyers 2022

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          Boston Magazine Names Six R+C Lawyers as Top Lawyers 2022

          Six Robinson+Cole lawyers—Kendra Berardi, Amanda Eckhoff, Michael Giaimo, Matthew Lawlor, Seth Orkand and Timothy Twardowski— were designated as Top Lawyers 2022 by Boston magazine. Now in its second year, the list was issued in the December 2022 edition of the magazine and included 1,211 best lawyers in the region, as chosen by their peers. The feature aims to serve readers as a valued resource for finding the best and most widely recognized lawyers in the Greater Boston area for their excellence in legal work. Lawyers were invited to nominate up to three of their peers in a select number of law specialty categories. Learn more and view the list.

      • November 3, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Receives 43 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 43 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

          Robinson+Cole received 43 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 30 in the city of Hartford, in the 2023 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

          Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release. 

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      • October 11, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

          A total of 39 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2022. In addition, 30 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

          Jeffrey J. White was named to the Top 50: 2022 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2022 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2022 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

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      • November 4, 2021

        Robinson+Cole Receives 40 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 40 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

          Robinson+Cole received 40 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 28 in the city of Hartford, in the 2022 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

          Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release. 

        • View article
      • October 14, 2021

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 42 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2021. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

          Bruce B. Barth and Jeffrey J. White were named to the Top 50: 2021 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2021 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2021 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

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      • August 19, 2021

        65 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022

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          65 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022

          65 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022. Of the 65 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

          Additionally, the following five lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Patrick M. Birney in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Michael F. Maglio in Banking and Finance Law, Robert S. Melvin in Environmental Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Energy Law and Jacqueline Pennino Scheib in Trademark Law. Peter V. Lacouture was also named a Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Providence, Rhode Island in the area of Energy Law.

          The second edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

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      • July 14, 2021

        Andrew DePeau, Tom Donlon and Evan Seeman Present at CBA's 2021 Connecticut Legal Conference

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          Andrew DePeau, Tom Donlon and Evan Seeman Present at CBA's 2021 Connecticut Legal Conference

          Robinson+Cole's Andrew A. DePeau, Thomas J. Donlon, and Evan J. Seeman were all presenters during the Connecticut Bar Association's 2021 Connecticut Legal Conference, the largest annual gathering of legal professionals in the state.

          Andrew co-presented the session, "Commercial Law and Bankruptcy: The Year in Review," which addressed recent case law in commercial litigation, consumer bankruptcy, and business bankruptcy.

          Tom served as moderator for the session, "The Appealing Road to Ethical Ruin." The program covered ethical pitfalls and issues related to modern appellate practice in the context of a series of scenarios—some hypothetical, some real with panelists Justice Ecker of the Connecticut Supreme Court and Dean Jennifer Brown of Quinnipiac Law School. Tom serves as co-chair of the CBA’s Appellate Advocacy Section, which presented the session.

          Evan co-presented the session, "The Top 10 Things Every Lawyer Should Know about Land Use Law." This session provided insights about land use law and how land use can impact private property rights. Evan serves as the Legislative Liaison for the CBA’s Planning & Zoning Section. 

      • June 10, 2021

        Evan Seeman Appointed CCAPA Program Committee Chair and Coordinates Association's FROM THE GROUND UP Housing Series

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          Evan Seeman Appointed CCAPA Program Committee Chair and Coordinates Association's FROM THE GROUND UP Housing Series

          Congratulations to Land Use and Real Estate + Development Groups member, Evan Seeman, who was appointed Chair of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (CCAPA) Program Committee and a member of its executive board. Evan’s appointment is effectively immediately. He recently moderated the first and third webinar sessions – “A Deep Dive on Housing in Connecticut” and “What Should We Be Building?” - of CCAPA’s four-part FROM THE GROUND UP Housing Series, and was instrumental in coordinating the first program and in organizing the series. R+C is pleased to sponsor this important and timely series. Evan also is a member of CCAPA’s Government Affairs Committee.

      • March 10, 2021

        Evan Seeman and Abby Warren Selected as James W. Cooper Fellows of the Connecticut Bar Foundation

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          Evan Seeman and Abby Warren Selected as James W. Cooper Fellows of the Connecticut Bar Foundation

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman and Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren have been elected by the Connecticut Bar Foundation as Fellows of the James W. Cooper Fellows Program. The program was established to honor the leading members of the legal profession and the judiciary in Connecticut, to promote a better understanding of the legal profession and the judicial system, and to explore ways to improve the profession and the administration of justice in Connecticut. Membership in the Fellows is by invitation only and is evidence of professional distinction. View the Class of 2021.

      • February 18, 2021

        Ted O’Hanlan Nominated to Serve as a Judge of the Connecticut Superior Court

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          Ted O’Hanlan Nominated to Serve as a Judge of the Connecticut Superior Court

          Land Use Group lawyer Edward V. O'Hanlan is among the 15 lawyers nominated by Governor Ned Lamont to fill vacancies as judges on the Connecticut Superior Court. This is the first class of Superior Court nominations made by Governor Lamont since taking office in January 2019. Appointments are to eight-year terms, with the expectation of reappointment until reaching age 70. Ted is the former chair of Robinson+Cole’s Land Use Group, and served as the partner in charge of the firm’s Stamford office from 2015-2017. His practice runs the full gamut of land use matters, from administrative applications and appeals to complex real property litigation. In addition to his practice, Ted serves on the board of directors for the Connecticut Veterans Legal Center and has served as an adjunct professor in real property law at Pace University School of Law. He has taught trial advocacy for the Connecticut Bar Association and at the Naval Justice School in Newport, Rhode Island. Ted is a retired Navy captain (JAG) after 25 years of active and reserve service. All judicial nominations are subject to confirmation by both chambers of the General Assembly. Read more in the press release.

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      • November 6, 2020

        Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

          Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2021 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management, Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

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      • October 15, 2020

        47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

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          47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

          A total of 47 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island for 2020. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

          Also, Bruce B. Barth was named to the Top 50: 2020 Connecticut Super Lawyers list and Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2020 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

          The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

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      • August 20, 2020

        61 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021

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          61 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021

          61 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021. Of the 61 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 46 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

          Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Michael R. Enright in Litigation – Bankruptcy, Gregory R. Faulkner in Litigation – Construction, Virginia E. McGarrity in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law, James P. Ray in Litigation – Environmental and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law. Michael S. Giaimo was also named a Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Land Use and Zoning Law.

          The inaugural edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

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      • April 23, 2020

        Chambers USA Recognizes 20 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 11 Practice Areas in CT, PA, and RI and Nationwide

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          Chambers USA Recognizes 20 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 11 Practice Areas in CT, PA, and RI and Nationwide

          In its 2020 edition, the legal directory Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in all six practice area categories that the publication covers in Connecticut. In addition, 20 lawyers were individually ranked from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, including one that has been recognized nationwide. Read more in the press release.

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      • November 1, 2019

        Robinson+Cole Receives 33 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 33 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

          Robinson+Cole received 33 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2020 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management , Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

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      • October 19, 2019

        52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 52 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2019. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

          The following lawyers were named to the Top 50: 2019 Connecticut Super Lawyers list: Denis C. Cavanaugh, Gregory R. Faulkner, Linda L. Morkan, Todd R. Regan, and Jeffrey J. White. Linda also appears on the Top 25: 2019 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

          The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

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      • August 15, 2019

        57 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

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          57 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

          57 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020. Of the 57 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 44 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law, insurance law, and litigation-construction.

          Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Thomas P. Cody in Real Estate Law, Michael R. Enright in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, John B. Lynch Jr. in Mergers and Acquisitions Law, and Theodore J. Tucci in Insurance Law. Kathleen M. Porter was also named a Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Information Technology Law. Read more in the press release.

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      • June 27, 2019

        Ted O'Hanlan Represents the Town of Branford in Eminent Domain Matter

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          Ted O'Hanlan Represents the Town of Branford in Eminent Domain Matter

          Land Use Group lawyer Ted O'Hanlan on June 12, 2019. The hearing involved a proposal for the Town to use eminent domain to take Crescent Bluff Avenue and adjacent property claimed and retained by one of several neighbors, in order to guarantee use of the road by the other neighbors and permit public access to Long Island Sound. Following presentations for and against the proposal, the matter was referred to the RTM Administrative Committee for review, with a meeting scheduled for July 9th. To learn more, you can read news stories here and here. 

      • March 18, 2019

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Help Reopen New London Harbor Lighthouse

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Help Reopen New London Harbor Lighthouse

          Robinson+Cole lawyers John P. Casey and Evan J. Seeman represented the New London Maritime Society pro bono in litigation that resulted in the New London Harbor Lighthouse being reopened to the public after the City issued a cease and desist order that prohibited public tours. Read more in the press release. 

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      • January 31, 2019

        Mike Giaimo Co-chairs MCLE Program on Zoning

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          Mike Giaimo Co-chairs MCLE Program on Zoning

          Land Use Group lawyer Michael S. Giaimo co-chaired a program entitled “Zoning Demystified – Comprehensive and packed with practical tips” at the MCLE Conference Center in Boston, Massachusetts on January 23, 2019. Presented by MCLE | New England®, the program was offered both in-person and as a recorded webcast. The session focused on the basics of zoning in Massachusetts, including how to review and apply a zoning ordinance or bylaw, how to be effective in practicing before local boards, and what happens in an appeal to the Land Court.

      • January 8, 2019

        Evan Seeman to Lead APA Planning and Law Division

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          Evan Seeman to Lead APA Planning and Law Division

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman has ascended to the role of chair of the American Planning Association's (APA) Planning and Law Division (PLD). Over the past three years, Mr. Seeman has served as the division's president-elect, secretary/treasurer and a member of the Education and Outreach Committee. The PLD is dedicated to educating individuals about the intersection of planning and law, as the legal issues underlying the planning of our cities and communities are important and essential components in the education and training of those who would become professional planners and land use practitioners. The PLD has more than 500 members, including attorneys, planners, municipal officials, students, and others.

      • December 17, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Promotes Nine Lawyers to Counsel

      • November 1, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – “Best Law Firms” Survey

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – “Best Law Firms” Survey

          Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2019 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report. The firm also received four national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Labor Law - Management.

          The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national and metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas. The full methodology can be found at http://bestlawfirms.usnews.com/methodology.aspx.

          View the complete list of first-tier metropolitan rankings.

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      • October 18, 2018

        51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2018. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. View the list of recognized attorneys and their areas of practice.

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      • March 20, 2018

        Evan Seeman and Brian Smith Present at Western Places/Western Spaces Conference

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          Evan Seeman and Brian Smith Present at Western Places/Western Spaces Conference

          Land Use Group lawyers Evan J. Seeman and Brian R. Smith presented workshops as part of the 2018 Western Places/Western Spaces Conference hosted at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in Denver, Colorado on March 8 and 9, 2018. Presented by the Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute, this year’s conference theme was “Disruption, Innovation, and Progress.” Mr. Seeman and Mr. Smith were speakers for the bonus workshop on March 7, “Fundamentals of Real Estate Law.” The full-day program provided an introduction to how real estate transactions work, from basic property law and covenants to the role of government and planners in the transactions. Mr. Seeman covered “Property Law Basics” and "Government Interests in Land." Mr. Smith covered “Drafting & Negotiating the Purchase and Sale Agreements.” In addition, Mr. Smith moderated the session “The Great Recession at 10: Why We Need Market Demand Based Planning and Permitting” on March 9, which argued that America needs market demand based planning and permitting to assure solvency of its private and public financial institutions, protect investor and taxpayer equity, and advance Americans' quality of life. View the program materials.

      • January 2, 2018

        Evan Seeman Presents Planning and the First Amendment Webinar

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          Evan Seeman Presents Planning and the First Amendment Webinar

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman was among the presenters for the “Special Topics in Planning and the First Amendment: Signs, Adult Businesses, Religious Land Uses, and More” webinar on December 14, 2017. Presented by the Planning & Law Division of the American Planning Association (APA), the program reviewed several areas in which planners interact with the First Amendment, including in the areas of sign regulation, religious land uses, adult businesses, and social media use by local governments and public employees. Click here to view the PowerPoint presentation.

      • December 11, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners

      • November 13, 2017

        Diana Neeves Participates in Panel Discussion on Cultural and Religious Bias in Land Use in New Jersey

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          Diana Neeves Participates in Panel Discussion on Cultural and Religious Bias in Land Use in New Jersey

          Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Diana Neeves was a panelist for the discussion, "Cultural and Religious Bias in Land Use Practice in New Jersey." The panel was part of a larger event on November 3, 2017 in New York City called "Hindsight 2017: Urban Planning Through the Equity Lens," sponsored by the New York City Metro Chapter of the American Planning Association. Ms. Neeves and her fellow panelists described several cases in which religious and cultural groups, particularly Muslims in central New Jersey and the Ramapough Native American tribe in northern New Jersey, have been denied permits to practice their faith and culture in the state. The panel discussion also included a review of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act and how it can be used to protect the rights of disadvantaged cultures.  

      • November 10, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2017 Conference

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2017 Conference

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyers Dwight H. Merriam and Evan J. Seeman participated in the 2017 Southern New England American Planning Association (SNEAPA) Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, on October 26 and 27. On October 26, Mr. Merriam was a panelist in the session "Land Use Law Developments of the Past Year." Click here for the PowerPoint. Also on October 26, Mr. Seeman presented in the session "From Dudley to DC: Religious Land Use, Planning, and the Courts." Click here for the PowerPoint. On October 27, Mr. Merriam moderated the session "Overcoming Accessibility Challenges in our Communities." Click here for the PowerPoint. The Southern New England American Planning Association (SNEAPA) hosts the conference annually. This year, the event drew over 600 participants from the areas of planning, law, architecture, and engineering, among others. Robinson+Cole is a major sponsor of the SNEAPA Conference.

      • November 1, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Receives 37 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 37 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

          Robinson+Cole received 37 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

          The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 ranking for Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Land Use & Zoning Law.

          The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

          View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

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      • October 17, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 56 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2017. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

          See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • August 28, 2017

        Evan Seeman Writes Chapter for ABA State and Local Government Law Section Book

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          Evan Seeman Writes Chapter for ABA State and Local Government Law Section Book

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman authored a chapter in the book Local Government, Land Use, and the First Amendment: Protecting Free Speech and Expression, published in August 2017 by the ABA's State and Local Government Law Section. In the chapter, "Regulating Religious Land Uses under the First Amendment: A Practical Approach for Local Governments," Mr. Seeman focuses on religious land use disputes brought under the First Amendment's Free Exercise and Establishment Clauses (the Religion Clauses), specifically analyzing the types of claims that governments may face under the Religion Clauses and the differences between claims under the Free Exercise Clause and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). Mr. Seeman also offers practice tips on how governments can avoid such claims at the outset and, if unsuccessful, can defend against such claims. To find out more about the book, click here.

      • August 15, 2017

        Fifty-Nine Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018

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          Fifty-Nine Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018

          Fifty-nine Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018 (Copyright 2017 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Of the 59 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state.

          Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2018 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Stuart D. Rosen in Litigation – Banking and Finance; Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Securities / Capital Markets Law; William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law; and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the press release.

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      • June 23, 2017

        Two Robinson+Cole Lawyers Contribute to Rhode Island Land Use Book

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          Two Robinson+Cole Lawyers Contribute to Rhode Island Land Use Book

          Robinson+Cole lawyers Timothy Twardowski and George Watson each wrote a chapter for the recently released book, A Practical Guide to Land Use Law in Rhode Island. Twardowski, a member of the firm’s Land Use and Real Estate and Development Groups, authored a chapter called “Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings,” while Watson, a member of the Environmental + Utilities Group, wrote, “Presenting a Case for Zoning Relief and Litigating a Zoning Case on Appeal.” The 11-chapter book, penned by 14 Rhode Island-based lawyers and published by MCLE New England, is designed to serve as a practical guide to the complex challenges of land use law in Rhode Island for state practitioners. It covers topics like comprehensive planning, zoning, subdivision review, eminent domain, First Amendment protection, and environmental regulation, including coastal zone provisions affecting land use.

      • May 26, 2017

        Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

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          Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized the law firm of Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2017 edition and has individually recognized 18 of the firm’s lawyers, including one lawyer who received nationwide recognition.  
          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in each of the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.
          See the full press release for the list of Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2017.

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      • April 27, 2017

        Real Estate Development Lawyer and Land Use Analyst Co-Author Article on Drones in the U.S. Retail Market

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          Real Estate Development Lawyer and Land Use Analyst Co-Author Article on Drones in the U.S. Retail Market

          Real Estate Development lawyer Brian Blaesser and Land Use Analyst Derek Valentine have published an article in the Spring 2017 issue of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) publication, Shopping Center Law & Strategy, entitled “Drones in the U.S. Retail Market.” The article discusses how retailers are seeking to use drones to deliver merchandise to customers, and the legal and technical constraints that inhibit their efforts. The article also discusses privacy and trespass issues that can arise in the use of drone and provides “Practice Tips” for retailers who wish to use drones in a limited capacity as they await changes in federal and state laws governing drone use. Both Mr. Blaesser and Mr. Valentine are members of the firm’s Real Estate + Development Practice Group. Mr. Blaesser is an appointed member of ICSC's National Environmental Subcommittee and holds the Counselor of Real Estate designation. Mr. Valentine has a B.S. in environmental science and a masters of city planning (M.C.P.). To read the article please click here.

      • April 21, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Expands Land Use and Environmental Practices in Miami

      • April 11, 2017

        Brian Smith and Dwight Merriam Present on Future of Connecticut Communities for Local Officials at Wesleyan

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          Brian Smith and Dwight Merriam Present on Future of Connecticut Communities for Local Officials at Wesleyan

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyers Brian R. Smith and Dwight H. Merriam presented at the Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions program,  sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section on March 25, 2017. The event, for local officials, takes place every two years at Wesleyan University and focuses on topics of immediate concern to all municipal land use agencies, boards, commissions, and their staffs. Mr. Smith spoke on "Special Permit and Site Plan Review." Mr. Merriam provided highlights of the 2016 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards.

      • March 24, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at John A. Speziale ADR Symposium

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at John A. Speziale ADR Symposium

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyers Dwight H. Merriam and Edward V. O'Hanlan participated at the 10th John A. Speziale ADR Symposium entitled "Finding Solid Ground: Environmental and Land Use Dispute Resolution in Connecticut" on March 17, 2017. Hosted by Quinnipiac University’s Center on Dispute Resolution and the Connecticut Bar Foundation, the symposium dealt with the finite nature of land, the increasing recognition of the need to protect natural and built resources, and the greater sophistication of both development advocates and opposition stakeholders. Because all of these factors have resulted in increased conflict, the presenters focused on creative and effective conflict resolution. Mr. O'Hanlan moderated the second of three panels, and Mr. Merriam, who co-chaired the event, was a member of the third panel. Speakers and attendees, filling the school's 180-seat courtroom to capacity, included lawyers, judges, developers, public officials, environmental activists, property owners, land planners, lenders, design professionals, and consultants.

      • January 17, 2017

        Hartford Lawyer Selected Chair-Elect of APA's Planning and Law Division

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          Hartford Lawyer Selected Chair-Elect of APA's Planning and Law Division

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman has been selected as chair- elect of the American Planning Association's (APA) Planning and Law Division (PLD). For the past two years, Mr. Seeman has served as the division's secretary/treasurer and before that served on its Education and Outreach Committee. The PLD is dedicated to educating individuals about the intersection of planning and law, as the legal issues underlying the planning of our cities and communities are important and essential components in the education and training of those who would become professional planners and land use practitioners. The PLD has over 500 members, including attorneys, planners, municipal officials, students, and others. 

      • November 1, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

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          Robinson+Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

          Robinson+Cole received 34 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 26 in the city of Hartford, in the 2017 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

          The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law, Land Use & Zoning Law, and Real Estate Law.

          The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

          View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

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      • October 27, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2016 Conference

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2016 Conference

          Real Estate + Development Group lawyers Dwight H. Merriam and Brian R. Smith participated in the SNEAPA 2016 Conference, held on October 20 and 21, 2016, in Worcester, Massachusetts. On October 20, Ms. Chaffee introduced the opening keynote speaker, Jim Braude, who hosts Greater Boston, a news and analysis show on WGBH Channel 2 and co-hosts Boston Public Radio on Boston’s local NRP station, 89.7, WGBH. Robinson+Cole was the sponsor of this keynote address. Click here to see photos. Also on October 20, Mr. Merriam moderated the session "Recent Developments in Land Use Law." Click here for his PowerPoint and here for his resource materials. On October 21, Mr. Smith participated in the session "Food and the First Amendment," and Mr. Smith moderated the session "Ethics for Planners in the Digital Age."

          The Southern New England American Planning Association (SNEAPA) hosts the conference annually. This year, the event drew over 600 participants from the areas of law, planning, architecture, and engineering, among others.

      • October 18, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2016. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 23 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

          See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • October 13, 2016

        Brian Smith and Dwight Merriam Speak on Eminent Domain at CBA Planning and Zoning Section Meeting

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          Brian Smith and Dwight Merriam Speak on Eminent Domain at CBA Planning and Zoning Section Meeting

          Brian R. Smith and Dwight H. Merriam of the Real Estate + Development Group presented on the status of the law of eminent domain in Connecticut and nationwide to the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association on October 5, 2016, in New Haven. Mr. Smith discussed prior case law and statutory amendments to the Connecticut General Statutes that arose due to fallout from the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. New London. Mr. Merriam discussed the state of the law of eminent domain from the nationwide perspective. He also led a discussion on alternatives to eminent domain and possible reforms as detailed in his soon-to-be-published article in the Connecticut Law Review. Click here for the article.

      • August 15, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2017

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          Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2017

          Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2017 (Copyright 2016 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 57 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 47 in Connecticut.

          Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2017 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Construction Law; Judith M. Keppelman  in Litigation – Trusts and Estates; Linda L. Morkan in Appellate Practice; and Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Corporate Law.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

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      • May 27, 2016

        Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

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          Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2016 edition and has individually recognized 19 of the firm's lawyers, including one lawyer recognized nationwide.
          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in each of the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.
          See the full press release for the list of Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2016.
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      • May 19, 2016

        Hartford Land Use Lawyers Publish Article on Religious Land Use Applications in Connecticut Planning

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          Hartford Land Use Lawyers Publish Article on Religious Land Use Applications in Connecticut Planning

          Land use lawyers Evan J. Seeman and Brian R. Smith wrote an article for the Spring 2016 issue of Connecticut Planning, a publication of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association, based on their experience representing a Connecticut soup kitchen in the local zoning process and subsequent federal litigation. In the article "Five Tips for Planners and Planning Commissioners Reviewing Religious Land Use Applications," Mr. Seeman and Mr. Smith discuss lessons learned in their experience and provide a handful of tips for land use agencies reviewing applications for proposed religious uses. Click here to read the entire article.

      • May 6, 2016

        Kacy Bailey Moderates Planning Ethics Webinar at Massachusetts APA Webinar

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          Kacy Bailey Moderates Planning Ethics Webinar at Massachusetts APA Webinar

          Katherine C. Bailey moderated a panel of planning ethics professionals at the webinar "Planning Ethics – Dealing With Problem Boards and Board Members," sponsored by the American Planning Association's (APA) chapters and divisions, on April 29, 2016. The speakers, Nancy Letendre, AICP; Bob Mitchell, FAICP; and Kristin Kassner, AICP, discussed situations where a board member or an entire board "goes rogue," acting unethically or even illegally. The session explored such instances through video scenarios, discussion among the panelists, and audience participation through interactive polling. The panel also discussed recent changes to the AICP Code of Ethics.

          Ms. Bailey is a land use lawyer in Robinson+Cole's Boston office.

      • May 4, 2016

        Land Use Lawyers Participate in APA National Planning Conference

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          Land Use Lawyers Participate in APA National Planning Conference

          Lawyers in Robinson+Cole's Land Use Group attended the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, held from April 2 to 4, 2016. Evan J. Seeman, Dwight H. Merriam, FAICP, and Brian R. Smith served as panelists.

          The April 3 sessions included the following: 

          • Mr. Seeman – "FHA, RLUIPA & Telecommunications Act Compliance": Click here to see the PowerPoint.
          • Mr. Merriam – "The Ethical Planning Practitioner": Click here to see the PowerPoint.
          • Mr. Merriam – "Planning for Water-Neutral Development": Click here to see the PowerPoint.

          The April 4 sessions included the following:

          • Mr. Smith – "Planning As If 'Black Lives Matter'": Click here to see the PowerPoint. 
          • Mr. Merriam – "Social Equity and Planning in the 21st Century: 2016 Diversity Summit": Click here and here to see the PowerPoints. Click here to view a photo of the participants.
          • Mr. Merriam – "Design Practices That Help Build Thriving Communities": Click as follows to view the PowerPoints – here, here, here, and here.
          • Mr. Merriam – "Planning Ethics: The Reality TV Show": Click the links to see the presentation videos – Hypothetical 1, Hypothetical 2, and Hypothetical 3.

          On the lighter side, Robinson+Cole and the Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Northern New England chapters of the APA jointly hosted the New England Planning Reception on April 3. Held at Mother Bunch Brewing in Phoenix, conference attendees had a chance to network and relax. Karla L. Chaffee and Katherine C. Bailey helped to plan the event.

      • April 14, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Pen Articles for Planning & Law Newsletter

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Pen Articles for Planning & Law Newsletter

          Land use lawyer Evan J. Seeman wrote articles for the Spring 2016 issue of Planning & Law, a publication of the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division. In her article, "To Regulate or Not to Regulate? Short-Term Rentals and the Hard Questions Municipalities Are Starting to Ask," Ms. Chaffee discusses concerns of some municipalities regarding short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO, and FlipKey. Many community planners question whether these short-terms rentals can and should be regulated. She looks into the unintended consequences of short-term rentals, their positive side, and whether they should be regulated. To find out more, click here to read the article.

          In his article, "They Can Take Our Raisins, But They Will Never Take Our Freedom: The Supreme Court 'Raisin Case' Part Deux," Mr. Seeman discusses the case Horne v. Department of Agriculture, where the Supreme Court rules that the federal government's requirement that raisin growers give up a percentage of their crops free of charge is an unconstitutional taking of property under the Fifth Amendment. He states, "While the regulation of raisin sales does not involve traditional planning principles or even land use, it is an important decision that could lead to new challenges for local governments in land use regulation." Click here to read the entire article.  

      • February 22, 2016

        Mike Giaimo Co-chairs MCLE Zoning Practice Seminar

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          Mike Giaimo Co-chairs MCLE Zoning Practice Seminar

          Michael S. Giaimo, a land use and real estate partner in Robinson+Cole's Boston office, co-chaired the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education program "Zoning Practice" on January 26, 2016. The all-day session, presented by a panel of experienced zoning lawyers and a Land Court judge, encompassed a wide range of zoning topics and was geared toward new practitioners and those wanting a refresher and update on Massachusetts zoning law. Mr. Giaimo also spoke on the topics of site plan review and constructive approval of zoning decisions.
      • December 29, 2015

        Evan Seeman Publishes Article on Sign Regulation in Connecticut Planning Magazine

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          Evan Seeman Publishes Article on Sign Regulation in Connecticut Planning Magazine

          Land use lawyer Evan J. Seeman wrote the article "Sign Regulation Turned on Its Head" for the Fall 2015 issue of Connecticut Planning, a publication of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association. The article analyzes the impact of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Town of Gilbert for communities across the country regulating signs through local zoning codes without running afoul of the First Amendment's freedom of speech protection. The Reed decision, Mr. Seeman concludes, appears to have significantly expanded the types of sign ordinances that will be deemed content based and subject to strict scrutiny judicial review. To get ahead of the problem, he suggests that local governments may want to review and revise sign ordinances and other ordinances regulating free speech for compliance with Reed.

          To read the entire article, please click here.

      • December 28, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

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          Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

          Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of four new partners and the promotion of two associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2016. The new partners are Adam Anderson, Megan E. Baroni, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, and April F. Condon. The new counsel are Alaine C. Doolan and Michele L. Maresca.
          "These six lawyers have made significant contributions to our clients and to our firm's successes and it is a pleasure to congratulate them on their well-deserved promotions," said John B. Lynch Jr., managing partner. "They provide exceptional service and value to our clients and offer a deep knowledge in their respective legal fields."

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      • October 28, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles in Connecticut Law Tribune's Connecticut Supreme Court Section

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles in Connecticut Law Tribune's Connecticut Supreme Court Section

          Business litigation lawyers Jeffrey J. White and Kathleen E. Dion, land use lawyer Dwight H. Merriam, and environmental and utilities lawyer Emilee Mooney Scott wrote articles for the 2015 Supreme Court Year in Review, a special section of the Connecticut Law Tribune, published on September 14, 2015.

          In the article "Administrative Procedures Are Focus of Insurance Case," co-authors Mr. White and Ms. Dion discuss Connecticut Supreme Court decisions regarding the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, the Uniform Partnership Act, and the Fair Employment Practices Act, all of which affect the business community. For a detailed analysis, please click here to view the article.

          In the article "Nibbling Around the Edges of Perennial Issues," Mr. Merriam writes that, although there were some important land use cases in the Supreme Court this year, some interesting ones nibbled "around the edges of several perennial issues." These key cases addressed aggrievement questions and zoning variances. For the full article, please click here.

          In the article "Rulings Put Limits on State Regulators and Intervenors," Ms. Scott analyzes two cases that interpret the extent of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's (DEEP) authority and the extent of intervention under Connecticut's Environmental Protection Act. Tilcon Connecticut v. Commission of Environmental Protection concerns DEEP's authority and Hunter Ridge v. Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Newtown addresses intervention under Connecticut's Environmental Protection Act. For her full interpretation, click here to see the article.

      • October 19, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2015. The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.
          In addition, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here. See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • September 30, 2015

        Land Use Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2015 Conference

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          Land Use Lawyers Present at SNEAPA 2015 Conference

          Robinson+Cole lawyers Evan J. Seeman, Dwight H. Merriam, FAICP, and Sorell E. Negro participated in the SNEAPA 2015 Conference, held on September 24 and 25, 2015, in Hartford, Connecticut. The Southern New England American Planning Association (SNEAPA) hosts the conference annually, drawing over 500 participants from the areas of law, planning, architecture, and engineering, among others.

          On September 24, Mr. Seeman moderated the session "Ethics at Risk – A Commissioner (or Commission) Goes Rogue – What’s Next?" An audience of approximately 120 people attended this ethics workshop. The panelists were Dwight Merriam; Nancy E. Letendre, attorney at law, AICP, Mason & Associates, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island; Bob Mitchell, FAICP, planning consultant, Boston; and Eric Barz, AICP, Town of Windsor, Connecticut. Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the resource list.

          On September 25, Mr. Merriam, FAICP, moderated "Land Use Law Developments of the Last Year," an annual update. The presenters were Pamela J. Brown, FAICP, Brown & Brown PC, Bedford, Massachusetts; Greg McGregor, McGregor & Associates, PC, Boston; Marjorie Shansky, attorney at law, New Haven; and Kathleen O'Donnell, attorney at law, Milton, Massachusetts. Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the resource list.

          On September 25, Ms. Negro moderated the session "Using Urban Agriculture to Grow Southern New England," featuring Professor Sara C. Bronin of the University of Connecticut School of Law; Marie Mercurio, AICP, senior planner for the Boston Redevelopment Authority; Ellen Cynar, program manager of the City of Providence's Healthy Communities Office; and Laurie Beyranevand, associate director of the Center for Agriculture and Food Systems at Vermont Law School. For the PowerPoint, please click here.

          Rounding out the sessions was a Robinson+Cole-sponsored Sunset River Cruise on the Connecticut River on September 24. Leaving from Riverfront Plaza, the boat trip gave those aboard the opportunity to not only access the Connecticut River but also view historic landmarks and picturesque sites along the river's banks.

      • August 20, 2015

        Land Use Lawyer Michael Giaimo Moderates IMLA Takings Webinar

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          Land Use Lawyer Michael Giaimo Moderates IMLA Takings Webinar

          Michael S. Giaimo, land use lawyer in the Boston office, co-moderated a webinar on regulatory takings on August 10, 2011. The session, "The Takings Issue," was part of a monthly series of webinars hosted by the International Municipal Law Association (IMLA) on various current land use topics of interest. Professor Daniel Mandelker of Washington University Law School was the other moderator. The panelists were Professor John Echeverria of Vermont Law School and Hawaii lawyer Robert Thomas.

      • August 18, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016

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          Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016

          Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016 (Copyright 2015 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 55 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 45 in Connecticut.

          Additionally, the following seven lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Bruce B. Barth in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law; Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law; Craig A. Raabe in Litigation – Intellectual Property; Edward J. Samorajczyk, Jr., in Securities / Capital Markets Law; and William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Peter V. Lacouture was named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Energy Law in Providence, Rhode Island.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

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      • May 15, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Is a Sponsor of APA National Planning Conference

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          Robinson+Cole Is a Sponsor of APA National Planning Conference

          Members of Robinson+Cole's Land Use Group attended the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference, held from April 18 to 21, 2015, in Seattle, Washington.

          On April 18, Dwight H. Merriam participated in two one-hour resume clinic sessions counseling eight planners, mostly soon-to-graduate students, on their resumes. On April 21, he moderated the Bettman Law Symposium session "Regulating the Neighborhood Dispensary" with panelists Tina Axelrad, assistant zoning administrator of the City and County of Denver's Department of Community Planning & Development/Development Services; Jeremy Nemeth, associate professor and chair of the Department of Planning and Design at the University of Colorado Denver; and John Schochet, deputy chief of staff of Seattle's City Attorney's Office.

          On April 19, Sorell E. Negro moderated "Urban Agriculture and the Law," which was selected as the APA's Planning and Law Division's by-right session for this year's conference. The program featured as speakers Carrie Richter, land use lawyer with Garvey Schubert Barer of Portland, Oregon; David Silverman, land use lawyer and certified planner with Ancel Glink of Chicago, Illinois; and Nicole Civita, who directs the Food Resiliency Initiative and Food Recovery Project at the University of Arkansas School of Law and is also of counsel with Foscolo & Handel PLLC, the Food Law Firm. Mr. Silverman and Ms. Civita are also authors of the recent book Urban Agriculture, co-edited by Ms. Negro and published by the ABA.

          Evan J. Seeman and Dwight H. Merriam organized and attended the East Coast Meets West Coast Reception, held on April 19. The reception was hosted jointly by Robinson+Cole and the Massachusetts and Connecticut APA chapters. Also in attendance were Brian R. Smith and Sorell E. Negro. Approximately 70 people from the planning field in New England and beyond attended the reception, enjoying extraordinary views of Mount Rainier.

          Robinson+Cole was a sponsor of this event. Please click here to see a photo of R+C lawyers at the conference.

      • April 23, 2015

        Land Use Lawyers Speak at APA Ethics Webinar

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          Land Use Lawyers Speak at APA Ethics Webinar

          Evan J. Seeman and Brian R. Smith, land use lawyers in Hartford, co-presented at the "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers" webinar on April 8, 2015, along with Hiram Peck, AICP, director of community planning & development in Simsbury, Connecticut, and David S. Silverman, AICP, of Ancel Glink in Chicago, Illinois. The session, sponsored by the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division, covered the primary sources of ethical rules, common ethical mistakes, and procedures to correct common mistakes. On the topic of "Ethical Rules for Lawyers," Mr. Seeman discussed distinct areas of law and regulation, attorney-client privilege, the work product doctrine, the ABA model rules of professional conduct, and common mistakes made by lawyers, among other issues, and Mr. Smith focused on the key issue of identifying the client and social networking as an issue for planners and lawyers.

          Please click here to view the program PowerPoint.

      • April 20, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles for Special Edition of Connecticut Law Tribune

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles for Special Edition of Connecticut Law Tribune

          Environmental and utilities lawyer Emilee Mooney Scott and land use lawyers Evan J. Seeman and Dwight H. Merriam, all resident in the firm's Hartford office, each wrote articles for a special edition of the Connecticut Law Tribune, entitled Land Use, Title Insurance & Environmental Law, published on March 23, 2015.

          Ms. Scott, author of "Is the Chemistry Right for Chemical Safety Reform," examines a bill introduced in the Senate to provide a systematic evaluation of chemical substances. The bill, the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, would significantly change the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the main federal statute that addresses the safety of chemicals in commerce. Click here to view the article.

          Mr. Seeman, co-author of the blog RLUIPA Defense, addresses in his article "Finding Salvation in Religious Law's Safe Harbor" how local governments can utilize an infrequently used provision of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA)—known as the "safe harbor" provision—to take corrective action to attempt to mitigate liability under the statute. Click here to view the article.

          In the article "New Land Use Enabling Legislation Needed," Mr. Merriam discusses the need for a complete rewrite of Connecticut's land use enabling legislation, which is based on laws enacted 90 years ago. He writes that updating the legislation would "benefit government, landowners, developers, businesses, neighbors, advocacy organizations, conservation groups, and generations not yet born." Click here to view the article.


           

      • March 25, 2015

        Brian R. Smith and Dwight Merriam Present at CBA Seminar on Connecticut Land Use Law

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          Brian R. Smith and Dwight Merriam Present at CBA Seminar on Connecticut Land Use Law

          Brian R. Smith and Dwight H. Merriam, land use lawyers in Robinson+Cole's Hartford office, spoke at the all-day seminar "Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions," sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section. The event was held at Wesleyan University on March 21, 2015, with 230 local land use officials and planners in attendance. Mr. Smith's presentation, "Special Permit and Site Plan Review," covered statutory requirements of and distinction between special permit and site plan review, and appeals from decisions on applications for special permit and site plan approval. Please click here to view the outline of his session. Mr. Merriam gave a brief presentation during lunch on the 2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards. Click here to view his PowerPoint and here to view his published article in the Zoning and Planning Law Report.

      • March 4, 2015

        Land Use Analyst Moderates and Presents Workshop to CCM

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          Land Use Analyst Moderates and Presents Workshop to CCM

          Linnea C. McCaffrey, AICP, land use analyst in the Hartford office, moderated and presented the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) workshop "The Returns on Investment in Planning: How Planning and Planners Add Value to the Municipal Team," held on February 26, 2015, at the Hamden Public Library. Hamden Mayor Scott Jackson welcomed an audience of 35 municipal officials, commissioners, and planners from 31 Connecticut towns and cities. Ms. McCaffrey discussed the certified planners' code of ethics and reasons to use professional planners in an era of budgetary constraints. Panelists Michael Goman of Goman+York Property Advisors; Barry Feldman, associate professor of public policy at Trinity College and former town manager of West Hartford; environmental and land use attorney Diane Whitney of Pullman & Comley; and Mark Pellegrini, AICP, director of planning and economic development for the Town of Manchester presented their various perspectives on the benefits of having professional planning staff, the changing role of the municipal planner and municipal government, and what it takes to attract capital and development.

          Ms. McCaffrey is Program Committee co-chair of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association. Click here to see the PowerPoint of the presentation.

           

      • December 11, 2014

        Robinson+Cole’s New London Office Moves Across Town

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          Robinson+Cole’s New London Office Moves Across Town

          Robinson+Cole, an Am Law 200 firm with 200 lawyers in nine offices serving clients from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, has moved its New London office. The new office is located at 88 Howard Street. 
          Land use lawyer John P. Casey, who is being promoted to partner effective January 1, 2015, anchors the New London office. Mr. Casey concentrates his practice on land use and environmental matters, with particular emphasis on coastal management, development, and permitting and littoral and riparian water rights. 
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      • October 29, 2014

        Two Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized on Super Lawyers Top Lists

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          Two Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized on Super Lawyers Top Lists

          Super Lawyers® has named land use lawyer Dwight H. Merriam and appellate lawyer Linda L. Morkan to its 2014 list of the Top 50 Connecticut Super Lawyers and its list of the Top 100 New England Super Lawyers. The Top Lists feature selected Super Lawyers attorneys with the most total points earned during the Super Lawyers selection process. The selection process can be viewed here. (Super Lawyers is a registered trademark of Key Professional Media, Inc.)

      • October 2, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named “New Leaders in the Law”

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named “New Leaders in the Law”

          The Connecticut Law Tribune has recognized Robinson+Cole lawyers Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Sorell E. Negro, Brian D. Nichols, and Keisha S. Palmer as New Leaders in the Law. They are among 60 attorneys, all under age 40, recognized in the New Leaders in the Law 2014 Yearbook and will be honored at an awards dinner on November 6 at The Bond Ballroom in downtown Hartford. The Connecticut Law Tribune received more than 300 award nominations, and honorees were selected based on examples of their legal work, pro bono efforts, and community involvement. Read more in the press release here.

           

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      • September 26, 2014

        Sorell Negro Appointed CLE Coordinator of ABA's State and Local Government Law Section

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          Sorell Negro Appointed CLE Coordinator of ABA's State and Local Government Law Section

          Land use lawyer Sorell E. Negro has been appointed as the CLE coordinator for the ABA's Section of State and Local Government Law for the 2014–2015 bar year. In this role, she will coordinate all CLE programs by the section's 13 committees, including webinars and in-person CLE programs at the section's meetings. Ms. Negro will also continue as co-chair of the section's Young Lawyers Committee, which she co-founded in 2013 with Michael Kamprath, assistant general counsel at the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority in Tampa, Florida. The Young Lawyers Committee currently has approximately 1,700 members.

      • September 4, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Announces Annual Community Service and Pro Bono Awards

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          Robinson+Cole Announces Annual Community Service and Pro Bono Awards

          Robinson+Cole recognized four lawyers for their initiative and outstanding dedication to the community at a reception, celebrating the firm’s summer legal intern program, on August 7, 2014. Managing partner John B. Lynch Jr. announced the Community Service Awards, which went to Thomas P. Cody and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, while pro bono partner Edward J. Heath presented the firm’s Pro Bono Awards, which went to Peter R. Knight and Evan J. Seeman. Read more about the honorees and their work in the press release here.

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      • August 25, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Launches HigherEdWire – News for legal counsel

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          Robinson+Cole Launches HigherEdWire – News for legal counsel

          Robinson+Cole's Education Law Group has launched a LinkedIn Group as a forum for discussions on news and legal developments affecting institutions of higher education. The group, HigherEdWire – News for legal counsel, can be found at http://www.linkedin.com/groups/HigherEdWire-News-legal-counsel-7464519.

          "Colleges and universities face legal issues in a variety of areas that continually change," said Megan R. Naughton, co-chair of the firm's Immigration Group. "Our education team monitors the pressing developments faced by educational institutions, and we wanted to create a source to share those updates on developing stories and trends that also encourages dialogue with those in the industry. LinkedIn provides that platform."

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      • January 14, 2014

        Boston Lawyer Participates in Coastal Planning Discussion

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          Boston Lawyer Participates in Coastal Planning Discussion

          Gregory S. Sampson, land use lawyer in the Boston office, participated in the panel "Designing for Coastal Storms" at ArchitectureBoston Expo (ABX Boston) on November 22, 2013. The discussion, part of the "Resiliency" track at the conference, focused on planning for coastal storms, in particular regarding uncertainty arising as a result of global warming and sea level rise, among other things. Mr. Sampson spoke about the 2012 reforms of the National Flood Insurance Program, which phase out subsidies for second homes, limit severe repetitive losses, require that rates cover actual losses, and create a reserve fund. He pointed out that the changes "have the support of both environmentalists, as high premiums will discourage reckless building and occupation, and fiscal conservatives, due to the elimination of subsidies." He also spoke about several local initiatives that would impose increased scrutiny on the design and operation of projects in areas that have the potential to be subject to coastal flooding as a result of sea level rise or climate change. Mr. Sampson was joined on the panel by Ken Buckland, principal at The Cecil Group, Armando Carbonell, senior fellow of the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, and Charles Orr, principal at Hutker Architects.
      • December 13, 2013

        Hartford Lawyers Participate in APA Webinar on Ethical Rules

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          Hartford Lawyers Participate in APA Webinar on Ethical Rules

          Land use lawyers Brian R. Smith and Evan J. Seeman represented Robinson & Cole as panelists in the webinar "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers" on November 22, 2013. Over 700 people from across the country listened in to the discussion, which was sponsored by the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA). Hiram Peck, the Simsbury director of Community Planning & Development, also participated as a panelist, and David Silverman, a lawyer at Ancel Glink in Chicago, moderated the program. Please click here to view the materials.

          Mr. Smith and land use lawyer Sorell E. Negro presented a similar program for the APA's Planning and Law Division (PLD) on September 4, 2013, raising more than $3,000 for the PLD. Mr. Peck and Mr. Silverman also participated in this program.
      • November 1, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Three National Rankings in U.S. News – Best Lawyers Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Three National Rankings in U.S. News – Best Lawyers Survey

          Robinson & Cole received 34 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2014 "Best Law Firms" list from U.S. News & World Report. The firm also received three national rankings, including Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Land Use & Zoning Law and a Tier 3 ranking for Real Estate Law.

          The rankings are presented in tiers, either on the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. The 2014 national rankings cover 74 practice areas while the metropolitan rankings cover as many as 120 practice areas. Both rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers were asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.
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      • October 29, 2013

        Hartford Lawyer Joins Board of Camp Courant

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          Hartford Lawyer Joins Board of Camp Courant

          Evan J. Seeman, land use lawyer, has joined the Advisory Board of Hartford's Camp Courant. The camp, the largest free day camp in the country, serves up to 1200 Hartford children, ages 5 to 12, during the summer months. Children in the program participate in recreational, educational, and cultural programs and receive transportation, two nutritious meals a day, health care screenings, and a bathing suit, if needed. Camp Courant's mission statement is "to provide a FREE summer sanctuary for Hartford children that enables them to develop positive relationships, learn, and have fun."

          To learn more about Camp Courant, click here.
      • October 21, 2013

        Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

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          Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

          A total of 61 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Florida for 2013. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 19 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

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      • October 18, 2013

        Stamford Lawyer Appointed to Connecticut House Task Force

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          Stamford Lawyer Appointed to Connecticut House Task Force

          Environmental and utilities lawyer Pamela K. Elkow was recently appointed to the Task Force to Examine Procedural Problems in Addressing Blight at the Municipal Level by the State of Connecticut's House of Representatives. Created by Public Act 13-123, the task force is charged with finding ways to combat blight and to administer fines on blighted properties. Ms. Elkow's term is effective immediately and will end on the date the final report is submitted or on February 5, 2014, whichever is later.
      • October 4, 2013

        Hartford Lawyer Authors Article for APA Journal

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          Hartford Lawyer Authors Article for APA Journal

          Land use lawyer Evan J. Seeman wrote the article "I Heard It Through the Grapevine...The Impact of Horne v. United States Department of Agriculture," published in the September 2013 issue of Planning & Environmental Law, a publication of the American Planning Association. In the article, Mr. Seeman chronicles the plight of Marvin and Laura Horne, California raisin growers, who challenged as an illegal "taking" the government's $650,000 fine against them for refusing to hand over free of charge a portion of their raisins under the Depression-era Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act (AMAA). Mr. Seeman predicts that similar challenges may arise over other agricultural commodities covered by the AMAA, including milk, tobacco, and hops.

          For further details of this case, please click here to view the article.
      • September 3, 2013

        Hartford Office Lawyers Elected to Executive Committee of CBA's Young Lawyers Section

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          Hartford Office Lawyers Elected to Executive Committee of CBA's Young Lawyers Section

          Health law lawyer Meaghan Mary Cooper, business litigation lawyer Amanda E. Gordon, and land use lawyer Evan J. Seeman were elected to the Connecticut Bar Association's (CBA) Executive Committee of the Young Lawyers Section (YLS). All three lawyers hold CBA leadership positions. Ms. Cooper co-chairs the Health Law Section, Ms. Gordon co-chairs the Consumer Law Section, and Mr. Seeman co-chairs the Municipal Law Section. The goals of the YLS are to promote justice, encourage public service, and promote diversity and education of young lawyers and newly admitted practitioners. The section, with over 2,000 members, organizes and sponsors continuing legal education and professional development sessions for both junior and senior members of the CBA.

      • August 27, 2013

        American Bar Association Recognizes Sorell Negro with Jefferson B. Fordham Society’s Up & Comers Award

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          American Bar Association Recognizes Sorell Negro with Jefferson B. Fordham Society’s Up & Comers Award

          The American Bar Association (ABA) honored Robinson & Cole land use lawyer Sorell E. Negro with the Jefferson B. Fordham Society's national Up & Comers Award. Ms. Negro was presented the award at the ABA's Annual Meeting in San Francisco, California, on August 9, 2013. The Up & Comers Award is presented to a lawyer 36 years of age or younger who, through his or her efforts and accomplishments, shows great promise to continue these contributions for future achievements.
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      • August 22, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Announces Annual Pro Bono, Mentor, and Community Service Awards

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          Robinson & Cole Announces Annual Pro Bono, Mentor, and Community Service Awards

          Robinson & Cole recognized 13 lawyers for their initiative and outstanding dedication to the firm and the community at a reception on August 8, 2013, at Billings Forge Community Works. Managing partner John B. Lynch Jr. announced the Mentor of the Year, Community Service, and Distinguished Service awards while Pro Bono partner Edward J. Heath presented the firm's Pro Bono Award.
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      • August 16, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2014 (Copyright 2013 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 56 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 48 in Connecticut and 2 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Additionally, three lawyers were named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2014. Judith M. Keppelman was named Hartford Trusts and Estates "Lawyer of the Year," Dwight H. Merriam was named Hartford Litigation - Real Estate "Lawyer of the Year," and James A. Wade was named Hartford Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants "Lawyer of the Year."

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      • June 10, 2013

        Chambers USA Ranks Robinson & Cole in Five Practices, Names 17 Attorneys as Leading Lawyers

      • May 10, 2013

        Tim Twardowski Pens Article for Massachusetts Lawyers Journal

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          Tim Twardowski Pens Article for Massachusetts Lawyers Journal

          Land use lawyer Timothy C. Twardowski authored the article "Chapter 40B cases address the regional need for affordable housing standard," published in the March 2013 issue of the Massachusetts Lawyers Journal. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court made two decisions in January 2013 that interpreted the regional need for affordable housing standard. The Court ruled that the availability of unsubsidized, affordable market-rate housing cannot be considered in weighing local concerns against the regional need for low- and moderate-income housing. In addition, because the regions used to assess the regional need for affordable housing were drawn differently in each case, Mr. Twardowski emphasizes in his article the critical necessity for the term "region" to be defined in Massachusetts.
      • March 22, 2013

        Attorneys Co-Author Article on How to Avoid Liability for "Greenwashing"

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          Attorneys Co-Author Article on How to Avoid Liability for "Greenwashing"

          Robinson & Cole partners Brian Blaesser and Kathleen Porter have published an article in the Spring 2013 issue of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Retail Law Strategist entitled "Green Guidance for Retailers: Avoiding FTC Claims of Unfair or Deceptive Marketing." The article explains how shopping center owners and retailers can avoid making unsubstantiated claims about environmental practices (greenwashing) when they seek to appeal to environmentally conscious customers by promoting their efforts to recycle and/or to reduce waste and energy usage. Specifically, the article discusses the revised Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims that were released by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in October of 2012 ("Green Guides"). The Green Guides give guidance on how to promote energy sources, waste disposal, and use certifications and seals of approval. Included in the piece are "practice tips" on how to avoid greenwashing and potential liability for multiple damages and attorney fees under various federal and state laws, including the Lanham Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, and state consumer protection statutes. Mr. Blaesser is a LEED Accredited Professional, LEED AP BD+C. Ms. Porter was named by The Best Lawyers in America® as Boston Lawyer of the Year in the area of Information Technology Law for 2013 (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC). To read the article, please click here.
      • March 1, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Lawyers Selected as James W. Cooper Fellows of the Connecticut Bar Foundation

      • February 28, 2013

        Mike Giaimo Presents at Zoning Law Seminar

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          Mike Giaimo Presents at Zoning Law Seminar

          Michael S. Giaimo, Boston land use lawyer, spoke to a classroom of lawyers, law clerks, paralegals, and consultants at the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education's "Zoning Basics Seminar" on January 23, 2013. He covered the topics of site plan approval and constructive grant of zoning approvals. This was Mr. Giaimo's 14th consecutive year as a panelist for this program.
      • January 24, 2013

        Connecticut Superior Court Awards Tenant $109,000 for Discrimination Based on Lawful Source of Income

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          Connecticut Superior Court Awards Tenant $109,000 for Discrimination Based on Lawful Source of Income

          Ms. Palmer, a domestic violence survivor, was staying temporarily on her cousin's couch when she obtained a Security Deposit Guarantee (SDG) from the Department of Social Services (DSS). The program provides tenants without the resources for a security deposit with a DSS-backed guaranty. Ms. Palmer attempted to use the Guarantee to rent an apartment in Manchester, from landlord Mr. Kenneth Burkamp. As Judge Oliver of the Connecticut Housing Court explained, "Despite [Ms. Palmer] indicating to the defendant that his refusal was illegal, Kenneth Burkamp continued to refuse to accept the SDG, indicating his reluctance to deal with the State of Connecticut."

          After being denied the apartment, Ms. Palmer contacted the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, where attorneys Greg Kirschner and Timothy Bennett-Smyth, assisted by the law firm of Robinson & Cole LLP, agreed to represent Ms. Palmer. On December 21, 2012, the Connecticut Housing Court awarded Ms. Palmer $109,788.50 in compensatory damages and attorneys' fees. The award includes a civil penalty against the defendant for willful conduct and is designed to deter other landlords from violating the fair housing laws.
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      • January 17, 2013

        Land Law Lawyers Speak at CBA Property Rights Seminar

      • January 17, 2013

        Michele Maresca Appointed Alternate to West Hartford’s Town Plan and Zoning Commission and Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency

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          Michele Maresca Appointed Alternate to West Hartford’s Town Plan and Zoning Commission and Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency

          Land use and real estate attorney Michele L. Maresca has been appointed as an alternate to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency of West Hartford. The commission manages community development through the Town’s zoning and subdivision regulations and is responsible for updating and adopting the Town Plan of Conservation and Development while the agency has approval authority over all land use applications requiring an inland wetlands permit.
      • December 5, 2012

        Earl Phillips and Sorell Negro Discuss Shale Development for American Planning Association Webinar

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          Earl Phillips and Sorell Negro Discuss Shale Development for American Planning Association Webinar

          Land use attorney Sorell E. Negro and environmental attorney Earl W. Phillips Jr. participated in the webinar, “Planning for Shale Development: Booms, Busts, and Beyond.” Mr. Phillips was a panelist, and Ms. Negro organized and moderated the webinar, which addressed land use and environmental law issues associated with natural gas development. The American Planning Association sponsored the webinar, which was attended by more than 600 people.
      • November 7, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Receives 32 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives 32 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

          Robinson & Cole received 32 first-tier rankings, across the cities of Hartford, Stamford, New London, Boston, and Providence, in the 2013 "Best Law Firms" list from U.S.News & World Report.

          The firm also received four national rankings, including Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Litigation-Construction, and Tier 3 rankings for Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law.

          The rankings are presented in tiers, either in the national list or metropolitan area, by practice area. The 2013 national rankings cover 80 practice areas, while the metropolitan lists cover as many as 118 practice areas. Both rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers were asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice area.
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      • October 26, 2012

        Evan Seeman Speaks to Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials About Religious Land Use

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          Evan Seeman Speaks to Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials About Religious Land Use

          Attorney Evan J. Seeman of the Land Use Practice Group addressed the Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials at its annual seminar on October 3, 2012. Mr. Seeman spoke to more than 50 zoning enforcement officials across the State of Connecticut about the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), a federal statute enacted in 2000 that provides certain protections to religious organizations in the land use and prison contexts. Mr. Seeman offered advice as to how municipalities can avoid such claims taken under RLUIPA in the first instance and, if such claims are brought, how municipalities can successfully defend against them. Mr. Seeman and Dwight H. Merriam of the Land Use Practice Group are co-authors of the blog RLUIPA-Defense (http://www.rluipa-defense.com) – a resource that tracks news and provides a database of legal and legislative materials concerning RLUIPA.
      • October 22, 2012

        Super Lawyers® Names 49 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2012 List and Recognizes 26 as Rising Stars

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          Super Lawyers® Names 49 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2012 List and Recognizes 26 as Rising Stars

          A total of 49 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island for 2012. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 26 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

          Recognized attorneys and their areas of practice can be read in the full press release.

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      • October 9, 2012

        Dwight Merriam and Evan Seeman Launch RLUIPA-Defense Website

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          Dwight Merriam and Evan Seeman Launch RLUIPA-Defense Website

          Land use lawyers Dwight H. Merriam and Evan J. Seeman have launched a new land use and zoning law website, RLUIPA-Defense (http://www.rluipa-defense.com) – a resource for anyone wanting to prevent RLUIPA claims or defend against them. RLUIPA-Defense tracks news and provides a database of federal and state court RLUIPA decisions, trial materials (oppositions to motions for preliminary injunction, motions for summary judgment, motions to dismiss, jury instructions), and appellate materials (circuit court briefs and petitions for writs of certiorari). The website also includes scholarly articles and legislative history about RLUIPA. Visitors can register to receive e-mail about news and updates.
      • September 18, 2012

        Land Use Lawyers Speaking at 2012 Southern New England American Planning Association Conference

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          Land Use Lawyers Speaking at 2012 Southern New England American Planning Association Conference

          Seven land use lawyers will serve on panel discussions at the 2012 Southern New England American Planning Association Conference at the Connecticut Convention Center September 20 and 21.

          The Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island chapters of the American Planning Association organize this annual regional planning conference. The 2012 theme is “Planning at the Crossroads.”

          Timothy D. Bates will be a panelist for the discussion “Land Banking: An Opportunity for Southern New England?” Panelists will discuss how land banks have helped communities with vacant properties. Sorell E. Negro and Evan J. Seeman will moderate the discussion.

          Matthew J. Lawlor will be a panelist for the discussion “Context-Based Zoning and Other Innovative Tools.” The panel will discuss how municipalities use form-based codes for development projects and for establishing relationships with the public.

          Dwight H. Merriam and Brian R. Smith will be panelists for the discussion “Land Use Law: What you Don’t Know WILL Hurt You – The Most Important Land Use Law Developments of the Last Year.” Mr. Merriam also will moderate the discussion.

          Thomas P. Cody will present one of the conference’s three mobile workshops. Mr. Cody, chair of the Riverfront Recapture board of directors, and Joseph R. Marfuggi, president and chief operating officer of Riverfront Recapture, will present “Riverfront Recapture – Park Development Along the Connecticut River,” which involves a walking tour of riverfront parks in Hartford and East Hartford.

          Land use analyst Linnea C. McCaffrey served on the conference’s planning committee and organized the conference’s three mobile workshops.
      • September 14, 2012

        Ten Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected as “Lawyers of the Year”

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          Ten Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected as “Lawyers of the Year”

          Robinson & Cole LLP congratulates its 2013 "Lawyers of the Year" as designated by The Best Lawyers in America® (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC).

          Those honored, and their area of practice, include the following:

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      • August 28, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole LLP was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (© 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 55 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 46 in Connecticut and 10 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 4.4 million confidential evaluations are submitted by attorneys on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas. Additional information regarding the Best Lawyers selection methodology may be read here. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

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      • August 28, 2012

        Land Use Attorney Named Connecticut Bar Foundation James W. Cooper Fellow

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          Land Use Attorney Named Connecticut Bar Foundation James W. Cooper Fellow

          The Connecticut Bar Foundation has elected land use counsel John P. Casey as a fellow in the James W. Cooper Fellows Program. Established 18 years ago, the program honors leaders in the legal profession and the judiciary in Connecticut. Membership is by invitation only. The program promotes a better understanding of the legal profession and the judicial system and explores ways to improve the profession and the administration of justice in Connecticut. The fellows program has approximately 885 members.

          The Connecticut Bar Foundation honored Mr. Casey and other inductees a reception at the New Haven Lawn Club.
      • June 11, 2012

        John Casey’s Article on Shoreline Development in New England Real Estate Journal

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          John Casey’s Article on Shoreline Development in New England Real Estate Journal

          The New England Real Estate Journal published John P. Casey’s article about issues property owners need to consider when preparing development plans along a shoreline. Mr. Casey’s article, “The view from the shore - Regulation as far as the eye can see,” ran in the May 18, 2012, issue and addressed such concerns as floodplain management, preservation of wetlands, sea level rise and impacts on navigation. Mr. Casey is counsel in the Land Use Practice Group.
      • May 14, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Welcomes Twelve New Attorneys in Five Offices Expanding its Presence across the Northeast

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          Robinson & Cole Welcomes Twelve New Attorneys in Five Offices Expanding its Presence across the Northeast

          Robinson & Cole is pleased to announce that two partners and ten other lawyers have joined the firm's ranks across its Northeast offices. The new attorneys add a depth and breadth of experience to various practice areas, including business, labor & employment, finance, litigation, land use, and construction.

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      • March 30, 2012

        Trial and Land Use Lawyers Present Webinar on Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act

      • March 14, 2012

        Super Lawyers® Renames Two Robinson & Cole Partners to Top 50 List in Connecticut

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          Super Lawyers® Renames Two Robinson & Cole Partners to Top 50 List in Connecticut

          Robinson & Cole LLP is pleased to announce that Super Lawyers® ( Super Lawyers is a registered trademark of Key Professional Media, Inc.) has again named two partners from the Hartford, Connecticut, office to its 2011/2012 list of the top 50 lawyers in Connecticut. Land law lawyers Dennis C. Cavanaugh and Dwight H. Merriam received the honor.
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      • February 27, 2012

        Land Use Partner Offers Correct Prediction of Supreme Court Case at Yale Panel Discussion

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          Land Use Partner Offers Correct Prediction of Supreme Court Case at Yale Panel Discussion

          Land use partner Brian R. Smith participated on a panel discussion about the U. S. Supreme Court case PPL Montana, LLC v. Montana on January 25, 2012, at Yale Law School. The Yale Environmental Law Association and the Connecticut Bar Association’s Environmental Law Section and Planning and Zoning Section hosted the discussion.

          Mr. Smith delivered a PowerPoint presentation as part of the discussion. During his presentation he correctly predicted how the U. S. Supreme Court would decide the case, which concerns how state ownership of riverbeds is determined.

          Land use associate Sorell E. Negro introduced the panelists.
      • December 30, 2011

        LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Discretionary Land Use Controls Book

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          LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Discretionary Land Use Controls Book

          LandLaw partner Brian W. Blaesser has just published the update of his book, Discretionary Land Use Controls: Avoiding Invitations to Abuse of Discretion (Thomson Reuters/West). Now in its 14th edition, the book is based on Mr. Blaesser’s real estate development practice and provides a practitioner’s guide to limiting government abuse of discretion in government decision making. The book also offers practical litigation tips for handling land use regulations in light of key court rulings.

          Highlights in the 14th edition include discussion of developer “class-of-one” equal protection claims based on the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Village of Willowbrook v. Olech, local governments’ use of a new type of exaction called the “fee in lieu of sales tax,” and the problems of mandatory government sustainable (green building) design and development regulations. The new edition also provides updates on the law of variances, special use permits, site plan review, planned unit developments, contract/conditional zoning and development agreements. Mr. Blaesser is also a co-author of the book, Federal Land Use Law & Litigation (Thomson Reuters/West: 2011), and holds a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation from the U.S. Green Building Council in building design and construction (LEED AP BD+C). Review the table of contents of Discretionary Land Use Controls here.

      • November 16, 2011

        LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation

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          LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation

          LandLaw Partner Brian W. Blaesser recently published with his co-author, Alan Weinstein, the 2011 update of his book Federal Land Use Law & Litigation (Thomson-Reuters/West). The 2011 edition highlights the pivotal federal, constitutional, and statutory limits that impact local land use and development controls, such as (1) the Takings Clause, including regulatory takings, physical invasion, and eminent domain; (2) First Amendment limitations on land use controls involving both freedom of speech and freedom of religion, with emphasis on the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA); and (3) federal environmental laws. Described by prominent constitutional law commentator and appellate lawyer Robert H. Thomas as “a must-have,” the book also discusses litigation strategies and provides practitioners with a practical discussion of federal remedies and attorney fees, availability of damages, and government liability/immunity issues.
      • November 14, 2011

        Robinson & Cole Client Breaks Ground on New Medical Facility in Boston

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          Robinson & Cole Client Breaks Ground on New Medical Facility in Boston

          Robinson & Cole represented the developer, The Beal Companies, for the new Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s (MEEI) medical office and outpatient facility, which broke ground October 26, 2011. The facility will be constructed at 800 Huntington Avenue in Boston’s Mission Hill section. Peter Spellios, senior vice president and general counsel for Beal, was master of ceremonies for the event, which was headlined by Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino. The Robinson & Cole team that helped Beal bring the project to reality included Matthew J. Lawlor, Carla M. Moynihan, and Gregory S. Sampson as the land use and zoning lead lawyers, and Lisa M. Boyle and Kimberly E. Troland as the health care law lead lawyers. Ms. Boyle and Ms. Troland helped Beal land MEEI as the tenant for 800 Huntington. Robinson & Cole received special mention at the ceremony along with the rest of Beal’s design and development team.
      • September 13, 2011

        Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partner Chairs ICSC Conference

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          Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partner Chairs ICSC Conference

          LandLaw Partner Brian W. Blaesser chaired the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) 2011 New England Idea Exchange Conference. One of the largest annual ICSC conferences, the New England Idea Exchange draws retail investors, developers, owners and brokers from New England, New York, and other states around the country. Mr. Blaesser chaired the 50-person Program Planning Committee and served as the master of ceremonies for the conference held in Boston at the Hynes Convention Center in July. The conference theme was “Back to Business!” with keynote speaker, Roger Berkowitz, President and CEO of Legal Sea Foods. Following welcoming remarks from Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, the conference began with a “Retailers Runway” of retailers who are new or expanding in New England, followed by a “New Technologies” session on how retail developers and retailers are using digital marketing and social media strategies to achieve their business objectives. The last day of the conference centered on developer-broker-retailer “Deal Making” with an interactive floor plan in the large convention hall. Robinson & Cole was a sponsor of the opening night reception for the conference.
      • August 18, 2011

        Brian Smith Joins Bridge Board of Directors

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          Brian Smith Joins Bridge Board of Directors

          Brian R. Smith, chair of Robinson & Cole’s Land Use Practice Group, has joined The Bridge Family Center Board of Directors. Mr. Smith has worked on various legal matters for the Bridge since 1999, including assisting the organization with obtaining an approval from the City of Hartford for Eleanor House, a therapeutic home for girls. Robinson & Cole has a long-standing relationship with the Bridge with various attorneys providing pro bono services and serving on its board since 1969.
      • August 2, 2011

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Win Against Challenge to Subdivision Approval

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Win Against Challenge to Subdivision Approval

          Attorneys Ted Carey and Danielle Long successfully defended in the Land Court an appeal of the Town of Berkley, Massachusetts’ approval of a subdivision. The abutter claimed that the developer did not have the right to use and improve a certain roadway as part of the subdivision plan. Representing the subdivision developer, and using recorded title documents, historical aerials and other extrinsic evidence, Robinson & Cole’s attorneys were able to prove the original grantor’s intent to create an easement by implication in the roadway to benefit the property now owned by the developer. Brian Blaesser, who obtained the subdivision approval for the developer in 2009, assisted at trial and on the post-trial brief.
      • June 13, 2011

        Pro Bono Committee Plans Summit to Encourage Pro Bono Legal Work

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          Pro Bono Committee Plans Summit to Encourage Pro Bono Legal Work

          The Judicial Branch’s Pro Bono Committee, under the leadership of its chair, Judge William H. Bright Jr., is preparing for a pro bono summit later this year. The goal of the statewide summit is to increase attorney awareness of and participation in pro bono activities. Robinson & Cole business litigation partner Edward J. Heath and land law partner Dwight H. Merriam are members of the Pro Bono Committee. For more information, read the Connecticut Law Tribune article, “Pro Bono Committee Members Roll Up Sleeves.”
      • May 24, 2011

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Group Heavily Involved at American Planning Association’s National Planning Conference

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Group Heavily Involved at American Planning Association’s National Planning Conference

          Robinson & Cole land use attorneys participated in several sessions and sponsored a reception coordinated by the host committee at the American Planning Association’s (APA) National Planning Conference. More than 5,000 people attended the conference at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston April 9 to 12, 2011.

          More than 200 guests attended the “Rum and Revolution” reception at the Boston Old State House. Many guests tried on colonial garb, including Matthew J. Lawlor who addressed the attendees.

          Dwight H. Merriam spoke about ethics issues with Patricia Salkin of Albany Law School during the conference’s opening session presented by professor Michael Sandel.

          As part of the conference, Mr. Merriam, Gregory S. Sampson and Timothy C. Twardowski organized and conducted a mobile workshop tour of the Minute Man National Historical Park with Nancy Nelson, the park superintendent, and Gregor McGregor of McGregor and Associates in Boston. The workshop focused on operating a national historical park in an area under development pressure with incompatible uses nearby.

          Michael S. Giaimo was a panelist for a discussion on the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) with Graham Billingsley, a partner at Orion Planning Group; David Morley, an APA research associate; and Molly Dunham, an APA attorney. Mr. Giaimo provided a survey of how courts across the country have interpreted the act’s substantial burden provisions.

          Mr. Merriam also was a panelist for a discussion about local planning and regulatory issues caused by legalization of medical marijuana. The other panelists were Thomas Ragonetti, a lawyer from Denver, and Edward Ziegler, a professor at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law.

          Coverage of the conference is on the APA Web site.

      • May 17, 2011

        Land Use Attorney Teaches the ABCs of Form-Based Codes

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          Land Use Attorney Teaches the ABCs of Form-Based Codes

          Land use counsel Matthew J. Lawlor taught two courses at a three-day training program, “The ABCs of Form-Based Codes & FBC301: Completing, Adopting and Administering Code,” at the Portland Public Library in Portland, Maine, May 2 to May 4, 2011.

          The first course covered the basic principles and components of form-based codes. Mr. Lawlor’s presentation focused on legal issues raised by this new type of land development regulation. The second, more advanced course, focused on completing, adopting, and administering the form-based codes. Mr. Lawlor reviewed the adoption and implementation approach for the Hamilton Canal District Form-Based Code, which Robinson & Cole acted as special legal advisor to the City of Lowell, Massachusetts.

      • April 14, 2011

        Land Law Associates Write Articles for Connecticut Law Tribune

      • April 5, 2011

        Land Law Lawyers Deliver Presentations for Connecticut Planning and Zoning Officials

      • March 15, 2011

        John Casey Helps Forge New Pro Bono Collaboration

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          John Casey Helps Forge New Pro Bono Collaboration

          John P. Casey, land law counsel and member of the Connecticut Legal Services’ (CLS) board of directors, led the charge for the Pfizer/CLS Pro Bono Project. This new initiative, which is the first of its kind in Connecticut between a legal aid society and an entire corporate law department, provides legal assistance to low-income elderly adults and is an opportunity for in-house counsel at Pfizer to participate in community service. CLS staff will refer 14 cases each month to Pfizer attorneys working on this project. A kick off event at Pfizer’s Groton, Connecticut, campus was attended by Pfizer’s general counsel; Judge William Bright, chair of the Connecticut Judiciary’s pro bono committee; and other leaders in Pfizer’s legal department.

          Click here to view the press release, Pfizer and Connecticut Legal Services Launch New Pro Bono Collaboration.

      • March 2, 2011

        LandLaw Attorney Discusses Wetland Permitting at AMWS Program

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          LandLaw Attorney Discusses Wetland Permitting at AMWS Program

          LandLaw attorney Gregory S. Sampson recently spoke at the Association of Massachusetts Wetland Scientists program, Federal & State Regulations for Wetlands & Waterways. Mr. Sampson’s presentation, “How to Avoid Getting Stuck in the Mud,” focused on subtleties in wetlands permitting and included an overview of several recent significant decisions in Massachusetts affecting permitting and jurisdictional determinations. He joined Karen Adams, Chief of Permits and Enforcement of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New England District, who discussed Federal Clean Water Act jurisdiction and the Massachusetts General Permit, and Lealdon Langley, Director of Wetlands and Waters of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), who spoke about the DEP’s new initiatives and coastal resource guidance. Ingeborg Hegemann, Vice President of Ecological Sciences for BSC Group, Inc. moderated the panel.
      • December 29, 2010

        LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Discretionary Land Use Controls Book

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          LandLaw Partner Publishes New Edition of Discretionary Land Use Controls Book

          LandLaw partner Brian W. Blaesser has just published the update of his book, Discretionary Land Use Controls: Avoiding Invitations to Abuse of Discretion (Thomson Reuters/West). Now in its 13th edition, the book is based on Mr. Blaesser’s real estate development practice and provides a practitioner’s guide to limiting government abuse of discretion in government decision making. The book also offers practical litigation tips for handling land use regulations in light of key court rulings. The 13th edition highlights the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision in the case, Stop the Beach Renourishment, involving littoral property owners’ rights in accretion and the hotly debated issue of judicial takings. The new edition also provides an update on recent applications of the Nollan/Dolan dual nexus test to exactions and updates on the law of variances, special use permits, site plan review, planned unit developments, contract/conditional zoning, development agreements and sustainable design and development regulations. Mr. Blaesser teaches Planning and Environmental Law at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and holds an appointment at the John F. Kennedy School of Government.
      • December 20, 2010

        LandLaw Attorneys Receive Award for Pro Bono Work

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          LandLaw Attorneys Receive Award for Pro Bono Work

          Real estate attorney Frank L. Baker III and land use attorney Edward V. O’Hanlan were the first recipients of the St. Andrew’s Church Pro Urbe award at the St. Andrew’s Church Patronal Festival in Stamford, Connecticut, on November 30, 2010. A Solemn High Pontifical Mass was celebrated followed by an awards ceremony in the parish hall. Mr. Baker received the Pro Urbe award in recognition of his counsel in 2009 in negotiating a ground lease/development contract for a portion of St. Andrew’s campus that provides funds to support the church’s community outreach programs. Mr. O’Hanlan received the award in recognition of his trial skills on behalf of St. Andrew’s in Superior Court in defeating a preservation group’s lawsuit to enjoin demolition of the church’s former rectory building on Washington Boulevard. Had demolition of the rectory been stopped or delayed, the lease would have terminated, and St. Andrew’s would have been forced to close its doors. Some of St. Andrew’s ministry programs include a child care center, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, and the Alternative Routes to Success program for high-school students unable to learn in a standard classroom environment.
      • December 17, 2010

        LandLaw Partners Speak at Property Rights Seminar

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          LandLaw Partners Speak at Property Rights Seminar

          Dwight H. Merriam and Brian R. Smith of the firm’s LandLaw Section spoke at the Connecticut Bar Association’s fifth annual Property Rights Seminar, organized and moderated by Mr. Merriam. Mr. Smith spoke on the Branford, Connecticut, eminent domain cases, the most important eminent domain cases of the last year in the state. He tried the winning cases with Steven Humphrey, of counsel. Mr. Merriam spoke on recent national developments.

          For a photograph of Mr. Smith delivering his remarks, click here.

      • December 2, 2010

        National Association of Realtors Honors LandLaw Partner and Firm

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          National Association of Realtors Honors LandLaw Partner and Firm

          LandLaw partner Brian W. Blaesser and Robinson & Cole were honored by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) at its national conference in November. Mr. Blaesser and his R&C team were recognized for their 12 years of work on behalf of NAR through programs developed to address issues important to Realtors® and the real estate industry. These programs include the Land Use Initiative, through which the team provides analyses of proposed state and local regulatory initiatives, the Customized State Legislation Program, through which the team prepares Realtor®-sponsored state legislation, the Smart Growth Quarterly e-Newsletter, which provides a 50-state update of pending smart growth-related legislation and initiatives at the state and local levels, and the Coordinating Realtor® Campaign, NAR’s national legislative campaign to address state real estate transfer taxes. The Robinson & Cole NAR team of attorneys and land use analysts is drawn from across the firm’s offices and includes Anne F. Campbell, Amanda S. Eckhoff, Michael Giaimo, Michele L. Maresca, Linnea C. McCaffrey, Gregory S. Sampson, Timothy C. Twardowski and George W. Watson III.

          While at the conference, Mr. Blaesser met with NAR’s leadership to discuss Robinson & Cole’s work for NAR and was asked to address the controversial issue of private transfer fees (PTFs), which are fees required to be paid to a private third party upon the sale or transfer of real property. They are typically imposed in the form of a covenant recorded against the property. NAR and the American Land Title Association (ALTA) have opposed PTFs on the ground that they constitute an unreasonable restraint on the transferability of real property. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) acted to prohibit issuance of FHA insurance on properties with PTFs in June 2010. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) recently proposed guidance that would instruct Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac not to purchase mortgages secured by properties that are encumbered by private transfer fees.

      • November 3, 2010

        Attorneys Cochair Connecticut Bar Association Planning and Zoning Section Event

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          Attorneys Cochair Connecticut Bar Association Planning and Zoning Section Event

          Land use attorneys Timothy D. Bates and John P. Casey cochaired the Connecticut Bar Association Planning and Zoning Section advanced program entitled A Potpourri of Hot Topics: A Spicy Mix of Land Use Issues on October 22, 2010, in New Britain, Connecticut. As part of the program, land use and real estate attorney Michele L. Maresca delivered the presentation “Primer: Zoning and the Fair Housing Act Amendments and Americans With Disabilities Act.” The half day event also included lectures on green building and zoning, electronic filing in land use cases, updates on wetlands laws and conditions in zoning permits, and municipal insurance company responses to civil rights claims.
      • October 19, 2010

        Land Law Attorney Delivers Presentation on Form-Based Code Legal Issues at American Planning Association Conference

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          Land Law Attorney Delivers Presentation on Form-Based Code Legal Issues at American Planning Association Conference

          The Northern New England Chapter of the American Planning Association held its annual planning conference in Portsmouth, NH, October 7 and 8. As part of the conference’s track on integrating land use, natural resources, and transportation planning, Boston office land use attorney Matthew J. Lawlor delivered a presentation on selected legal issues raised by form-based codes adopted in New England. His presentation was in conjunction with a background presentation on form-based codes and New England examples by George Proakis, planning director for the City of Somerville, MA, and with a how-to presentation on the downtown Dover, NH, form-based code district by Chris Parker, the Dover planning director, and Steve Whitman, an architect and urban designer with Jeffrey Taylor Associates. Among the form-based codes reviewed and analyzed concerning characteristics and legal issues were Hamilton Canal District in Lowell, MA, and the Tri-Town Development Area in Andover, Tewksbury, and Wilmington, MA, two codes on which Mr. Lawlor has worked for the firm.
      • October 5, 2010

        Attorneys Help Launch Boston Bar Association Real Estate Section Season

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          Attorneys Help Launch Boston Bar Association Real Estate Section Season

          The Boston Bar Association (BBA) Real Estate Section recently kicked off its 2010-2011 event season thanks to the efforts of Robinson & Cole attorneys Brian W. Blaesser, Matthew J. Lawlor, and Carla M. Moynihan. The first program focused on the state’s affordable housing law (Chapter 40B) and the public policy issues facing Massachusetts voters in light of the November ballot question to repeal the statute.

          Mr. Lawlor, counsel in the firm’s Land Use and Real Estate Development Practice Groups, organized the three-hour, three-panel session, moderating the first one. Mr. Blaesser, a LandLaw partner well-known for his 40B development work and affordable housing appeals practice, was a panelist in the second panel. Ms. Moynihan, a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group, is cochair of the BBA Real Estate Section, which addresses specific substantive areas of law ranging from bankruptcy to zoning, including land use, environmental issues, development, financing, and eminent domain matters.

      • September 17, 2010

        Robinson & Cole LLP Receives Most Connecticut First-Tier Rankings in Inaugural U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

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          Robinson & Cole LLP Receives Most Connecticut First-Tier Rankings in Inaugural U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

          U.S.News & World Report and the Best Lawyers in America® 2011 (© 2010 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.) have released their Best Law Firms rankings for practice areas, and Robinson & Cole LLP has garnered the most first-tier rankings for metropolitan areas in Connecticut.
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      • August 16, 2010

        Brian Blaesser Publishes Update of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation

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          Brian Blaesser Publishes Update of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation

          LandLaw partner Brian W. Blaesser recently published the 2010 update of his book, Federal Land Use Law & Litigation (Thomson-Reuters/West) with co-author Alan Weinstein. Mr. Blaesser and Mr. Weinstein comprehensively revised and reorganized the 2010 edition, which has a new chapter on federal environmental statutes. The new edition continues to highlight the pivotal federal, constitutional, and statutory limits impacting local land use and development controls, specifically (1) the Takings Clause, including regulatory takings, physical invasion, and eminent domain; (2) First Amendment limitations on land use controls involving freedom of speech and freedom of religion, with emphasis on the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA); and (3) expanded coverage of federal environmental laws affecting land use regulation. Prominent constitutional law commentator and appellate lawyer, Robert H. Thomas, in his review of the new edition, describes Federal Land Use Law & Litigation as “an eminently useful single-volume research and reference guide … a must-have.”
      • August 9, 2010

        Brian Blaesser and Amanda Eckhoff Publish Article on Green Initiatives Impacting Private Development

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          Brian Blaesser and Amanda Eckhoff Publish Article on Green Initiatives Impacting Private Development

          LandLaw attorneys Brian W. Blaesser and Amanda S. Eckhoff just published Part 2 of The Greening of the Litigation Landscape in the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) publication Retail Law Strategist. The article is the second in a three-part feature and explains the two types of green initiatives impacting private development—voluntary programs that provide incentives for green construction and mandatory programs requiring compliance. Mr. Blaesser and Ms. Eckhoff discuss how local green initiatives may affect allocation of responsibilities and risk among members of a real estate development team. They use one of the first-in-the-country “green” litigation cases, Shaw Development, LLC v. Southern Builders, Inc., as an example of how these risks and responsibilities may lead to litigation during development of a green retail building. They also examine the American Institute of Architects’ forms – B101 (2007) (Standard Form Agreement Between Owner and Architect) and the B214 (2007) (Standard Form of Architect’s Services: LEED Certification) – that are intended to better allocate the responsibilities among development team members during construction of a green building and reduce the risk of litigation. The authors recommend steps that members of a development team can take to reduce risk of litigation and ensure that each member has a clear understanding of their role, responsibilities, and degree of risk when undertaking a green retail construction project. To read Part 1 and Part 2 of the article, please click here.
      • July 23, 2010

        Connecticut Hospital Association Elects Timothy Bates to Board of Trustees

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          Connecticut Hospital Association Elects Timothy Bates to Board of Trustees

          At the annual meeting of the Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) on June 30, 2010, land use partner, Timothy D. Bates was elected to the CHA’s Board of Trustees. The CHA represents and advances the interests of Connecticut's non-profit hospitals. Mr. Bates is the chairman of the governance committee of the board of Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, in New London. Prior to that he served as board chair until January 1, 2010.
      • July 21, 2010

        Court of Claims Adds $100 Million for Eminent Domain Taking

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          Court of Claims Adds $100 Million for Eminent Domain Taking

          Robinson & Cole received a favorable decision for its client in an eminent domain proceeding captioned Gyrodyne Company of America, Inc. v. The State of New York. As reported in the New York Law Journal a Court of Claims judge has added nearly $100 million to the amount that the private owner of 245 acres of property on Long Island should receive through an eminent domain proceeding. Together with statutory interest, the ultimate award should be in excess of $140 million. Gyrodyne Company of America initially received $26.3 million for the property, which was taken for a research and development project on the State University of New York’s Stony Brook campus. Joseph L. Clasen argued that his client was not afforded a fair price during condemnation of its property in 2005 based on the highest and best use of the land. Judge Lack agreed and rejected the state’s valuation of the property according to the highest and best light industrial use of the property.

          In addition to Mr. Clasen, the Robinson & Cole team included Dwight H. Merriam, Thomas J. Donlon, and Sue E. Silverman. “Court Adds $100 Million for Eminent Domain Taking” by Joel Stashenko appeared in the New York Law Journal on July 8, 2010.

      • July 13, 2010

        West Publishing Selects Writings by Land Use Lawyers for its Annual Compendium of Leading Articles

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          West Publishing Selects Writings by Land Use Lawyers for its Annual Compendium of Leading Articles

          Dwight H. Merriam had their article, "Six Fact Patterns of Substantial Burden in RLUIPA: Lessons for Potential Litigants," republished as one of the leading articles of the last year in West's 2010 Zoning and Planning Law Handbook, the 30th year of its annual publication. The article was originally published in the Albany Government Law Review. Mr. Merriam also had his article, "Regulating Backyard Wind Turbines," from the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law republished in the handbook.

      • July 9, 2010

        John Casey and Michele Maresca Present a Review of Land Use Case Law to the Connecticut Bar Association

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          John Casey and Michele Maresca Present a Review of Land Use Case Law to the Connecticut Bar Association

          Landlaw attorneys John P. Casey and Michele L. Maresca recently presented the firm's annual review of land use case law to the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. The presentation discussed significant Connecticut Appellate Court and Supreme Court decisions in land use law from the past year, including cases on site plan review under the Coastal Management Act, public notice requirements for zoning applications, proximity of a residential property to a gun club as a violation of due process, standing of an opposition group to challenge a zoning decision, and a town's exercise of municipal powers in lieu of relief under zoning statutes.
      • June 18, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Recognized by Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Recognized by Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation

          Land use attorney Charles E. Janson was recognized in the May/June issue of Connecticut Preservation News for his work to help preserve the lands around the Philip Johnson Glass House in New Canaan, CT. Much of the magic of the Philip Johnson Glass House lies in its views of the surrounding landscape, making the preservation of this land crucial. Over the past three years, Mr. Janson represented the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the real estate transactions that allowed the Trust to purchase land adjacent to the house, increasing the property size from 47 acres to more than 200 acres. Mr. Janson also wrote the preservation and conservation documents for the property ensuring that the land will be free of future development. Real estate attorney Amanda D. Lovelace completed the resale by the Trust of a residence and land, subjected to the preservation restrictions, as a final element of the project.
      • June 10, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorneys Host “Smart Growth” Webinar

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorneys Host “Smart Growth” Webinar

          Land use attorneys Matthew J. Lawlor and Gregory S. Sampson recently presented a webinar entitled “Smart Growth - Sustainability in Land Use Planning: Development Rating Systems and Regulatory Approaches,” to approximately 450 members of the American Planning Association (APA). Land use analyst Linnea McCaffrey organized and moderated the webinar. Mr. Sampson discussed the recently released Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Neighborhood Development rating system, and Mr. Lawlor reviewed the use of form-based codes as a regulatory tool to address sustainability goals in planning. Robinson & Cole's Land Use Practice Group is registered with the APA as a provider of continuing education courses for members of the American Institute of Certified Planners.
      • May 21, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present at Flood Control Workshop

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present at Flood Control Workshop

          Dwight H. Merriam and John A. Poakeart of the LandLaw Section recently conducted two workshops on flood management through land use planning and regulation in conjunction with HDR for the Westchester County Department of Planning. More than 120 municipal planning board members, elected officials and land use professionals from throughout the county attended.
      • May 11, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Land Use Hot Topics Program in Miami

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Land Use Hot Topics Program in Miami

          LandLaw attorney Michele L. Maresca recently participated in the Land Use Hot Topics panel at the American Bar Association's State and Local Law Section meeting in Miami on April 30, 2010. Ms. Maresca presented a paper, co-authored with Timothy D. Bates and Joel C. Norwood, entitled "Accommodating Zoning: Uses and Limits of the Fair Housing Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act." The paper analyzes a case study of a site application made in Mystic, Connecticut, by which the applicant sought "reasonable accommodations" under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The article will be published in an upcoming edition of The Urban Lawyer.
      • March 5, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Coauthor Chapter in Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Book

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Coauthor Chapter in Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Book

          Real Estate attorney E. Christopher Kehoe and Land Use attorney Timothy C. Twardowski again coauthored the update of Chapter 7 “Trusts” in the book Real Estate Title Practice in Massachusetts, a publication of Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. (MCLE). In this chapter, they provide an overview of trust real estate law in Massachusetts, including forms of trust, recording requirements, conveyances by and to trustees, rights and liabilities of trustees and beneficiaries, and termination of trusts. The book is slated for publication in March 2010.
      • February 12, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected to Board of Directors of U.S. Green Building Council Massachusetts Chapter

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected to Board of Directors of U.S. Green Building Council Massachusetts Chapter

          Land Use attorney Gregory S. Sampson was recently elected to the board of directors of the Massachusetts chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. The recently formed chapter promotes the design, construction, and operation of sustainable buildings and communities in Massachusetts through education, support, and advocacy.
      • September 17, 2009

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Participate in Panel Discussion for Boston Bar Association

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Participate in Panel Discussion for Boston Bar Association

          Michael S. Giaimo, Land Use group partner and managing partner of the Boston office, participated in a panel discussion September 10, 2009, that addressed practical and legal challenges to projects proposed under Chapter 40R, a statute for promoting production of housing in "smart growth" developments. The discussion was part of the brown bag lunch meeting of the Boston Bar Association's Land Use & Development Committee, cochaired by Land Use counsel Matthew J. Lawlor. Mr. Giaimo’s fellow panelists were planning consultant Angus Jennings of Concord Square Planning and Development and municipal attorney Jonathan Silverstein of Kopelman & Paige. The discussion addressed how the statute has lived up to the hopes of its proponents with a particular focus on two appeals involving the statute: (i) 2007 declaratory judgment actions challenging Kingston town meeting’s adoption of the Kingston Place 40R overlay district; and (ii) the appeal undertaken this spring from the Natick Planning Board’s 40R project approval for the Natick Paperboard redevelopment, which includes a challenge to the constitutionality of 40R’s appeal record and bonding requirements.
      • September 2, 2009

        Books by Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partners on Best Seller List

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          Books by Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partners on Best Seller List

          Books authored or edited by LandLaw partners Brian W. Blaesser, Thomas P. Cody, Michael S. Giaimo, and Dwight H. Merriam recently made the American Bar Association’s best seller list for the Section of State and Local Government Law. Mr. Giaimo co-edited the best seller RLUIPA Reader: Religious Land Uses, Zoning and the Courts and also authored a chapter in the book. Mr. Merriam also authored a chapter in the book and edited the best seller At the Cutting Edge: Land Use Law from the Urban Lawyer. Mr. Blaesser and Mr. Cody edited the best seller Redevelopment: Planning, Law, and Project Implementation and also authored several chapters in the book.
      • July 28, 2009

        Robinson & Cole Land Use and Real Estate Attorneys Collaborate on Coastal Considerations Seminar

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use and Real Estate Attorneys Collaborate on Coastal Considerations Seminar

          On July 14, attorneys in the Land Use and Real Estate practice groups co-hosted a two-hour seminar and networking breakfast titled “Coastal Considerations and Regulatory Reality.” More than 25 guests, representing a cross-section of professionals and property owners involved in land use along Fairfield County's shoreline attended the event in Stamford. Land Use partner Edward V. O'Hanlan acted as moderator, while Real Estate partner Kenneth M. Gammill facilitated the question and answer session. Speakers were Land Use counsel John P. Casey, Real Estate counsel Charles E. Janson, and Land Use Analyst Anne F. Dayton. The event's guest speaker was Timothy DeBartolomeo, PE of Cuoco Structural Engineers.
      • July 15, 2009

        Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partner Publishes Update of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation Book

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          Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partner Publishes Update of Federal Land Use Law & Litigation Book

          LandLaw partner Brian W. Blaesser recently published with his co-author, Alan Weinstein, the 2009 update of his book, Federal Land Use Law & Litigation (Thomson-West).

          Highlights of the 2009 edition include a discussion of the continuing effect of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Lingle v. Chevron U.S.A. Inc. on lower federal court decisions involving the takings issue and substantive due process challenges to land use regulations; lower federal court decisions that have addressed “class of one” equal protection claims since the Supreme Court’s decision in the Olech case; the Sixth Circuit’s effort to find a definition of “substantial burden” under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), and an opinion by Judge Richard Posner of the Seventh Circuit that poses intriguing questions about the meaning of the RLUIPA’s equal terms provision. The new edition also discusses the U.S. EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ December 2, 2008, Revised Guidance Memorandum on the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Rapanos v. United States, and the extent to which the Revised Guidance clarifies definitional terms and interpretation issues for determining when wetlands are jurisdictional.

      • December 10, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected to Board of Directors of Nonprofit Organization

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected to Board of Directors of Nonprofit Organization

          Robinson & Cole Land Use attorney John P. Casey was recently elected to the Board of Directors of Connecticut Legal Services at its annual meeting in October. CLS is a private, non-profit, civil law firm dedicated to providing access to justice as a means of improving the lives of low-income people.
      • December 9, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorneys Co-Author Article for Law Tribune

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorneys Co-Author Article for Law Tribune

          Land Use attorneys Edward V. O'Hanlan and Tyisha S. Hovanec recently co-authored the article "Easements, Buddhists and Sexually-Oriented Businesses" for the Connecticut Law Tribune. To read article, click here.
      • October 27, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorney Participates at 2008 Fall Council Meeting of ABA Section

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Attorney Participates at 2008 Fall Council Meeting of ABA Section

          Matthew J. Lawlor, of the Land Use Practice Group, recently participated as a session panelist at the 2008 Fall Council Meeting of the ABA Section of State and Local Government Law in Chicago. The session, entitled "Smart Growth and Green Growth: Land Use Planning in a Time of Climate Change," focused on new ideas in land use planning and regulation that are both smarter and greener in the advent of climate change and the growing list of states and local governments adopting greenhouse gas emissions reduction mandates.
      • October 14, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Planning Conference

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Planning Conference

          Land Use Attorney Gregory S. Sampson recently presented at the Southern New England Planning Conference. Mr. Sampson's presentation, "Green Zoning", was on the integration of sustainable development and green building requirements into local zoning and land use regulations.
      • October 8, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Partners Speak at Planning Conference

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Partners Speak at Planning Conference

          Land Use Partners Dwight H. Merriam and Edward V. O'Hanlan recently spoke at the 2008 Southern New England Planning Conference in Providence, RI. In their session, "Third Annual National and Regional Land Use Law Update", Mr. O'Hanlan gave an update on the recent developments in Connecticut. Mr. Merriam moderated the panel and gave a brief summary of some of the more unusual cases at the national level. The conference was attended by over 500 planners from Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut.
      • September 18, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Attorneys Co-Author Chapters for Urban Development Guide

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          Robinson & Cole Attorneys Co-Author Chapters for Urban Development Guide

          Land Use lawyers Robert J. Sitkowski and Matthew J. Lawlor contributed as co-authors on three chapters in the recently published book entitled A Legal Guide to Urban and Sustainable Development for Planners, Developers and Architects.
      • September 5, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Attorney Appointed Co-Chair of BBA's Land Use & Development Committee

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          Robinson & Cole Attorney Appointed Co-Chair of BBA's Land Use & Development Committee

          Land Use group attorney Matthew J. Lawlor was recently appointed the co-chair of the Boston Bar Association's (BBA) Land Use & Development Committee.
      • September 2, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Land Use Group Attorneys Participate on Faculty of ALI-ABA Land Use Institute

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          Robinson & Cole Land Use Group Attorneys Participate on Faculty of ALI-ABA Land Use Institute

          Dwight H. Merriam and Robert J. Sitkowski, of the LandLaw Section, recently participated as faculty members at the 24th Annual American Law Institute - American Bar Association Land Use Institute in Boston. Mr. Merriam moderated a panel on recent planning, land use and eminent domain decisions and presented on the annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards, inverse condemnation, dealing with distressed properties, and the lessons learned from “colossal mistakes” made by land use lawyers. Mr. Sitkowski spoke about green development regulatory systems, expert witness preparation, and the conversion of mobile home parks.
    • Publications + Presentations
    • "Ethics - Right, Wrong, and Everything in Between," presented by Brian R. Smith, as part of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (CCAPA)'s 2023 Hot Topics in Land Use Law and Practice Conference (6/9/2023)
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        • Ethics - Right, Wrong, and Everything in Between

        "Ethics - Right, Wrong, and Everything in Between," presented by Brian R. Smith, as part of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (CCAPA)'s 2023 Hot Topics in Land Use Law and Practice Conference (6/9/2023)

        The program covered new developments in land use law and practice including ethics.


      "Special Permit and Site Plan Review," presented by Brian R. Smith, presented as part of the 2023 CT Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, Commissions training hosted by the Connecticut Bar Association Planning and Zoning Section (3/11/2023)
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        • Special Permit and Site Plan Review

        "Special Permit and Site Plan Review," presented by Brian R. Smith, presented as part of the 2023 CT Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, Commissions training hosted by the Connecticut Bar Association Planning and Zoning Section (3/11/2023)

        The introductory level course focused on topics of immediate concern to all municipal land use agencies, boards, commissions, and their staffs. The training provided a broad review of the municipal land use process, including zoning, planning, zoning board of appeals, and wetlands issues.


      "Cacophony or Collaboration? Helping people work together in land use and municipal planning," presented by Evan J. Seeman, as moderator of the program presented by the American Planning Association Connecticut Chapter (CCAPA) (10/27/2022)
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        • Cacophony or Collaboration? Helping people work together in land use and municipal planning

        "Cacophony or Collaboration? Helping people work together in land use and municipal planning," presented by Evan J. Seeman, as moderator of the program presented by the American Planning Association Connecticut Chapter (CCAPA) (10/27/2022)

        Planners often find themselves dealing with people – homeowners, community groups, developers and elected officials, among others – who are upset or in stressful situations. The webinar offered several techniques to help improve communication and encourage more effective, collaborative planning efforts. The program covered a range of topics and addressed questions such as: What can you do the manage difficult behaviors when someone comes to the office? When is collaboration in land use decisions appropriate and what does it look like? How can dialogue be more productive and less contentious? Who should convene and manage the process? 


      "New Federal Speed Regulations for Coastal Waters" co-authored by John P. Casey, Michael S. Giaimo and Madeleine M. Laffitte (9/28/22)

      "Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings - 2022 Supplement," authored by Timothy C. Twardowski, The original chapter was first published in June 2017 in A Practical Guide to Land Use Law in Rhode Island (August 2022)
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        • Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings - 2022 Supplement

        "Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings - 2022 Supplement," authored by Timothy C. Twardowski, The original chapter was first published in June 2017 in A Practical Guide to Land Use Law in Rhode Island (August 2022)

        The 11-chapter book, first published in June 2017 by MCLE New England and augmented with a 2022 Supplement, was penned by 14 Rhode Island-based lawyers. The book serves as a practical guide to the complex challenges of land use law in Rhode Island for state practitioners. It covers topics such as comprehensive planning, zoning, subdivision review, eminent domain, First Amendment protection, and environmental regulation, including coastal zone provisions affecting land use.


      "EBC Ocean and Coastal Resources Webinar: 2nd Annual Regional Agency Update – Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures," presented by John P. Casey, as moderator (2/3/22)
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        • EBC Ocean and Coastal Resources Webinar: 2nd Annual Regional Agency Update – Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures

        "EBC Ocean and Coastal Resources Webinar: 2nd Annual Regional Agency Update – Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures," presented by John P. Casey, as moderator (2/3/22)

        The virtual event, hosted by the Environmental Business Council of New England, Inc., presented a panel of state regulators who discussed strategies for protecting coastal resources and structures that are compliant with their coastal regulatory programs. The panelists explored different options available to coastal property owners seeking to protect their assets from storm damage and erosion, based on various factors such as the presence and condition of coastal resources, the nature of the property’s existing shoreline, and the use of the property. Those options range from traditional coastal protection, including seawalls and revetments, to “soft” protective measures and living shorelines. A Q&A discussion with the audience concluded the webinar.


      "Code Series: What is the New Definition of Adaptive Reuse in Connecticut?" presented by John P. Casey, a moderated webinar hosted by AIA Connecticut (11/30/2021)
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        • Code Series: What is the New Definition of Adaptive Reuse in Connecticut?

        "Code Series: What is the New Definition of Adaptive Reuse in Connecticut?" presented by John P. Casey, a moderated webinar hosted by AIA Connecticut (11/30/2021)

        The panel explored how the future of Connecticut will be shaped by adaptive reuse and repurposing of existing large buildings such as malls, shopping centers, warehouses and office buildings. The webinar offered a chance to hear from building officials, building code consultants, legal, and town planning representatives on the common mistakes frequently seen in construction documents, litigation and the implications of public hearings, and how to prepare for a plan review or town hearing. Panelists also discussed the built environment in Connecticut, Partial Change of Occupancy vs. Change of Occupancy and which code standards apply, and offered examples of real life adaptive reuse projects and what we are likely to see in the future.


      "Supreme Judicial Court: Short-Term Rentals Not Consistent with Single-Family Residential Zoning" co-authored by Timothy C. Twardowski, Kristen E. Spirou and Michael S. Giaimo (6/22/2021)

      "Long Island Sound Blue Plan" co-authored by Jessica D. Bardi and John P. Casey (5/28/2021)

      "A Deep Dive on Housing in Connecticut," presented by Evan J. Seeman, the first in the four-part CCAPA "FROM THE GROUND UP" Housing Series. (5/14/2021)
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        • A Deep Dive on Housing in Connecticut

        "A Deep Dive on Housing in Connecticut," presented by Evan J. Seeman, the first in the four-part CCAPA "FROM THE GROUND UP" Housing Series. (5/14/2021)

        Land Use and Real Estate + Development Groups member, Evan Seeman, was instrumental in coordinating the webinar, "A Deep Dive on Housing in Connecticut," which he also served as moderator, as part of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association's (CCAPA) FROM THE GROUND UP Housing Series on May 14, 2021. For planners, policymakers, land use practitioners and other stakeholders, fact-based, context-informed understanding of this issue is critically important as Connecticut plans for a post-pandemic world. During the program, the first in a four-part series, the panel addressed the consequences of state and local housing policies in driving - or damaging - economic development, environmental sustainability, and equity for marginalized groups. The discussion explored data, historic context, and the latest academic work focused on the causes and consequences of housing policy in Connecticut,  highlighting the work land use professionals do that can help shape the future of the state. Evan serves on the CCAPA's Program and Government Affairs Committees. R+C is pleased to sponsor this important and timely series, which continues with programs on May 21st ("Taking Stock of Housing in Connecticut"), June 4th ("What Should We Be Building?") and June 11th ("Legislative Recap"). 


      "Home is Where the Work Is: Regulating and Incentivizing Work Force Housing," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, during the American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust & Estate Law's 33rd Annual Virtual CLE Conference, “Building Bridges Together in the Practice of Law” (4/21/2021)
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        • Home is Where the Work Is: Regulating and Incentivizing Work Force Housing

        "Home is Where the Work Is: Regulating and Incentivizing Work Force Housing," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, during the American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust & Estate Law's 33rd Annual Virtual CLE Conference, “Building Bridges Together in the Practice of Law” (4/21/2021)

        Land Use and Real Estate + Development Groups member, Karla Chaffee, served as program chair and moderator for the panel discussion "Home is Where the Work Is: Regulating and Incentivizing Work Force Housing" during the American Bar Association Section of Real Property, Trust & Estate Law's 33rd Annual Virtual CLE Conference, “Building Bridges Together in the Practice of Law,” on April 21, 2021. The panel took up the questions “What is the 'missing middle' and what are governments doing to find it?,” addressed the strategies currently used to develop adequate housing choice for middle-income individuals, and examined several key matters, including:

        • how local and state-wide legislation can address decades of discriminatory land use policies that have promoted and perpetuated racially and economically segregated neighborhoods;
        • an overview of how various State housing authorities incentivize and prioritize work force housing in “Qualified Allocation Plans” for low-income housing tax credit deployment; and
        • a developer’s perspective on the challenge of financing housing for the “missing middle” through the lens of the Bourgoyne Bywater development.  

      "Protecting Coastal Resources, Part 2 – Putting Law and Science into Practice," presented by John P. Casey, as co-chair of the Environmental Business Council of New England webinar (2/24/2021)
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        • Protecting Coastal Resources, Part 2 – Putting Law and Science into Practice

        "Protecting Coastal Resources, Part 2 – Putting Law and Science into Practice," presented by John P. Casey, as co-chair of the Environmental Business Council of New England webinar (2/24/2021)

        Land Use Group member, John Casey, co-chaired the Environmental Business Council of New England webinar, "Protecting Coastal Resources, Part 2 – Putting Law and Science into Practice," on February 24, 2021. The pressure to protect coastal properties and infrastructure from storm damage and erosion due to sea level rise and increasingly intense and frequent coastal storms is escalating. This second program in the two-part series addressing coastal protection and resiliency featured municipalities and practitioners discussing successes, lessons learned, and how they are approaching coastal protection and resiliency. The panel also explored the appropriateness of options ranging from traditional coastal protection, including seawalls and revetments, to “soft” protective measures and living shorelines. A panel discussion open to the audience concluded the webinar.


      "MA Zoning Reform Focused on Housing Production; Waiting for DHCD Guidance" co-authored by Jessica D. Bardi and Karla L. Chaffee (2/16/2021)

      "Zoning: MCLE BasicsPlus!," presented by Michael S. Giaimo (1/27/2021)
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        • Zoning: MCLE BasicsPlus!

        "Zoning: MCLE BasicsPlus!," presented by Michael S. Giaimo (1/27/2021)

        Michael Giaimo, a member of the firm’s Land Use Group and Real Estate + Development Group and co-chair of the firm’s Landlaw Section, co-chaired and presented at the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education's webinar, "Zoning: MCLE BasicsPlus!," on January 27, 2021. The program explained the basics of zoning in Massachusetts. It was geared to those who are relatively new lawyers or new to the practice area, while also offering value for the more experienced practitioner seeking a refresher course. He presented sessions on site plan review, constructive grants of special permits and variances, and legal ethics in land use law.


      "Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures, Part 1 – The Intersection of Nature, Science and Policy," presented by John P. Casey (1/27/2021)
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        • Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures, Part 1 – The Intersection of Nature, Science and Policy

        "Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures, Part 1 – The Intersection of Nature, Science and Policy," presented by John P. Casey (1/27/2021)

        John Casey, a member of the firm’s Land Use and Real Estate + Development Groups, co-chaired the Environmental Business Council (EBC) of New England's webinar, "Protecting Coastal Resources and Structures, Part 1 – The Intersection of Nature, Science and Policy" on January 27, 2021. The pressure to protect coastal properties from storm damage and erosion due to sea level rise and more intense, more frequent coastal storms is increasing. Property owners, from residential homeowners and municipalities to commercial developments and water-dependent industries, want to know what options are available to them, ranging from traditional coastal protection, including seawalls and revetments, to “soft” protective measures and living shorelines. The efficacy of such options is based on a host of factors, such as the presence and condition of coastal resources, the nature of the property’s existing shoreline, and the use of the property. This EBC Ocean and Coastal Resources program’s panel, consisting of regulators from all five of New England’s coastal states, discussed strategies for protecting coastal resources and structures that are compliant with their coastal regulatory programs. A lively discussion with the audience concluded the webinar.


      "An Act to Address Challenges Faced by Municipalities and State Authorities Resulting from COVID-19" co-authored by Jessica D. Bardi, Michael S. Giaimo, Matthew J. Lawlor and Timothy C. Twardowski (4/13/20)

      "Short-term Rental Regulation in Boston – Lessons Learned from the First Year," presented by Timothy C. Twardowski, presented as the first program in the 2020 "From Soil to Solar: Land Law Development Forum" (2/27/2020)
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        • Short-term Rental Regulation in Boston – Lessons Learned from the First Year

        "Short-term Rental Regulation in Boston – Lessons Learned from the First Year," presented by Timothy C. Twardowski, presented as the first program in the 2020 "From Soil to Solar: Land Law Development Forum" (2/27/2020)

         Tim Twardowski presented the first 2020 “From Soil to Solar: Land Law Development Forums” on February 27, 2020 at the firm’s Boston office. The program - “Short-term Rental Regulation in Boston – Lessons Learned from the First Year” - provided an overview of Boston’s short-term rental ordinance, including a recap of the ordinance’s key provisions and a discussion of emerging issues and lessons learned during the first year.


      "Zoning Demystified," presented by Michael S. Giaimo, co-chaired, presented by MCLE | New England® in Boston, Massachusetts (1/29/2020)
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        • Zoning Demystified

        "Zoning Demystified," presented by Michael S. Giaimo, co-chaired, presented by MCLE | New England® in Boston, Massachusetts (1/29/2020)

        Land Use Group member Michael S. Giaimo co-chaired the all-day seminar, “Zoning Demystified,” at the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Conference Center in Boston, Massachusetts on January 29, 2020. The program, offered both in-person and as a live and recorded webcast, addressed the basics of zoning in Massachusetts, including how to review and apply a zoning ordinance or bylaw, how to be effective in practicing before local boards, and what happens in an appeal to the Land Court. The seminar featured a panel of experienced practitioners and a justice of the state Land Court, and provided a broad overview of zoning law and practice for an audience of planners, consultants and lawyers. It was geared to relatively new lawyers or those new to the practice area, while also offering value for more experienced lawyers. In addition to serving as co-chair, Mike spoke on “Site Plan Review and Constructive Approvals” and led an interactive session on ethical issues that can arise in the land use context.


      "How Land Use and Natural Resource Regulations are Shaping the Legal Cannabis Industry," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, in a webinar for the American Planning Association's Planning & Law division (3/21/2019)

      "Zoning Demystified," presented by Michael S. Giaimo, as a Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Conference Center in-person seminar and live webinar. (1/23/2019)
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        • Zoning Demystified

        "Zoning Demystified," presented by Michael S. Giaimo, as a Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Conference Center in-person seminar and live webinar. (1/23/2019)

        Land Use Group member Michael S. Giaimo co-chaired the all-day seminar, “Zoning Demystified,” at the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education Conference Center in Boston, Massachusetts on January 23, 2019. The program, offered both in-person and as a live and recorded webcast, addressed the basics of zoning in Massachusetts, including how to review and apply a zoning ordinance or bylaw, how to be effective in practicing before local boards, and what happens in an appeal to the Land Court. The seminar featured a panel of experienced practitioners and a justice of the state Land Court, and provided a broad overview of zoning law and practice for an audience of planners, consultants and lawyers. It was geared to relatively new lawyers or those new to the practice area, while also offering value for more experienced lawyers. In addition to serving as co-chair, Mike spoke on “Site Plan Review and Constructive Approvals” and led an interactive session on ethical issues that can arise in the land use context.


      "Green Tax Incentive Compendium" (1/1/2019)

      Federal Land Use Law & Litigation, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Alan Weinstein, (Thomson-Reuters: 2018)

      "Planning Ethics," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar sponsored by Lorman Educational Services (6/9/2017)
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        • Planning Ethics

        "Planning Ethics," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar sponsored by Lorman Educational Services (6/9/2017)

        The session covered state and local ethics regulations, the AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, ethical rules for lawyers, new issues and common problems, and hypotheticals. Click here to view the PowerPoint.


      "'Content Neutral' Land Use Regulation after Reed: Recent Developments in Signs, Adult Businesses, and Religious Uses," published in Planning & Law, authored by Evan J. Seeman (Spring 2017)
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        • 'Content Neutral' Land Use Regulation after Reed: Recent Developments in Signs, Adult Businesses, and Religious Uses

        "'Content Neutral' Land Use Regulation after Reed: Recent Developments in Signs, Adult Businesses, and Religious Uses," published in Planning & Law, authored by Evan J. Seeman (Spring 2017)

        The article examines the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Town of Gilbert, which has made it more difficult to regulate land uses in a content neutral manner that satisfies First Amendment limitations. It considers several forms of expression protected by the First Amendment that may arise in the zoning context, including the regulation of signage, adult entertainment business uses, and religious uses. 

      • View article

      "Is Your Community Ready for Marijuana?" published in Planning & Law, authored by Karla L. Chaffee (Spring 2017)
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        • Is Your Community Ready for Marijuana?

        "Is Your Community Ready for Marijuana?" published in Planning & Law, authored by Karla L. Chaffee (Spring 2017)

        In light of the legalization of marijuana in a handful of states, the article explores the question that many communities share: "How can we, at the local level, prepare?"

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      "The 2016 ZiPLeRs: The Twenty-Second Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (February 2017)
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        • The 2016 ZiPLeRs: The Twenty-Second Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards

        "The 2016 ZiPLeRs: The Twenty-Second Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (February 2017)

        The article chronicles the unusual and often humorous planning and zoning developments of 2016 and features Mr. Merriam's thoughts on topics such as zoning for Jell-O wrestling, your First Amendment right to sell a used car, and good neighbors are hard to find, among others.

      • View article

      "Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Humphries, a U.K. planning barrister, a webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/4/2017)
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        • Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century

        "Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Humphries, a U.K. planning barrister, a webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/4/2017)

        The webinar addressed the cross-cultural comparison between the United States and the United Kingdom in the infrastructure challenges and solutions facing both nations. Also discussed was how lessons learned in the United Kingdom can provide take-away value for the United States and Canada. Click here to view the program’s PowerPoint.


      "Special Permit and Site Plan Review," presented by Brian R. Smith, at the Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions program, sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section (3/25/2017)
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        • Special Permit and Site Plan Review

        "Special Permit and Site Plan Review," presented by Brian R. Smith, at the Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions program, sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section (3/25/2017)

        The event, for local officials, takes place every two years at Wesleyan University and focuses on topics of immediate concern to all municipal land use agencies, boards, commissions, and their staffs. 


      "Discussion of 2016 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions program; sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section (3/25/2017)
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        • Discussion of 2016 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards

        "Discussion of 2016 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions program; sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section (3/25/2017)

        The event, for local officials, takes place every two years at Wesleyan University and focuses on topics of immediate concern to all municipal land use agencies, boards, commissions, and their staffs. 


      "Discussion of Murr v. Wisconsin," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Touro Law School land law course taught by Touro College Provost Patricia Salkin (3/23/2017)
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        • Discussion of Murr v. Wisconsin

        "Discussion of Murr v. Wisconsin," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Touro Law School land law course taught by Touro College Provost Patricia Salkin (3/23/2017)

        Mr. Merriam discussed the Murr v. Wisconsin case, argued in the U.S. Supreme Court on March 21, and its potential implications for the law of inverse condemnation. Click here to see the PowerPoint for the class.   


      "Finding Solid Ground: Environmental and Land Use Dispute Resolution in Connecticut," co-presented by Edward V. O'Hanlan and Dwight H. Merriam, at the 10th John A. Speziale ADR Symposium, hosted by Quinnipiac University's Center on Dispute Resolution and the Connecticut Bar Foundation, (3/17/2017)
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        • Finding Solid Ground: Environmental and Land Use Dispute Resolution in Connecticut

        "Finding Solid Ground: Environmental and Land Use Dispute Resolution in Connecticut," co-presented by Edward V. O'Hanlan and Dwight H. Merriam, at the 10th John A. Speziale ADR Symposium, hosted by Quinnipiac University's Center on Dispute Resolution and the Connecticut Bar Foundation, (3/17/2017)

        The symposium dealt with the finite nature of land, the increasing recognition of the need to protect natural and built resources, and the greater sophistication of both development advocates and opposition stakeholders. Because all of these factors have resulted in increased conflict, the presenters focused on creative and effective conflict resolution. Mr. O'Hanlan moderated the second of three panels, and Mr. Merriam, who co-chaired the event, was a member of the third panel. Speakers and attendees, filling the school's 180-seat courtroom to capacity, included lawyers, judges, developers, public officials, environmental activists, property owners, land planners, lenders, design professionals, and consultants.


      "Updating Land Use and Zoning Ordinances," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a Lorman Education Services webinar (3/15/2017)
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        • Updating Land Use and Zoning Ordinances

        "Updating Land Use and Zoning Ordinances," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a Lorman Education Services webinar (3/15/2017)

        Mr. Merriam discussed the most up-to-date approaches on rewriting local zoning ordinances. The participants' learning objectives included being able to describe mandatory planning and the consistency doctrine, to explain consensus building, to identify and build a living document, and to handle meetings, hearings, and public debate. Click here to view the PowerPoint.


      "Drone Technology: Implications on Policymaking and Design of the Built Environment," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a webinar for the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (3/13/2017)
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        • Drone Technology: Implications on Policymaking and Design of the Built Environment

        "Drone Technology: Implications on Policymaking and Design of the Built Environment," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a webinar for the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (3/13/2017)

        The session covered the significance of emerging drone technology on city and town planning, along with public concerns, given the wide range of recreational and commercial current uses of drones. Click here to view the PowerPoint.


      "Tips and Resources for Legal Research and Preparation for Land Use and Zoning Applications and Cases," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section Meeting in New Haven, Connecticut (3/1/2017)
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        • Tips and Resources for Legal Research and Preparation for Land Use and Zoning Applications and Cases

        "Tips and Resources for Legal Research and Preparation for Land Use and Zoning Applications and Cases," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Connecticut Bar Association’s Planning and Zoning Section Meeting in New Haven, Connecticut (3/1/2017)

        Mr. Merriam provided practice tips in the session "Tips and Resources for Legal Research and Preparation for Land Use and Zoning Applications and Cases" and discussed the best resources for preparing  zoning applications, doing legal research, drafting briefs, and performing factual investigations in land use matters. Click here to view the corresponding PowerPoint.


      "From the Ground Up: Unshared Assumptions in Law and Planning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/2/2017)

      "Federal Laws, Regulations, and Programs Affecting Local Land Use Decision Making," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/2/2017)
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        • Federal Laws, Regulations, and Programs Affecting Local Land Use Decision Making

        "Federal Laws, Regulations, and Programs Affecting Local Land Use Decision Making," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/2/2017)

        Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the resource materials. 


      "Regulating Navigable Airspace: The Drones Are Here," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/2/2017)
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        • Regulating Navigable Airspace: The Drones Are Here

        "Regulating Navigable Airspace: The Drones Are Here," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/2/2017)

        Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the resource materials. 


      "Update on Planning, Land Use, and Eminent Domain Decisions," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/1/2017)
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        • Update on Planning, Land Use, and Eminent Domain Decisions

        "Update on Planning, Land Use, and Eminent Domain Decisions," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 31st Annual Land Use Institute: Planning, Regulation, Litigation, Eminent Domain, and Compensation program in Miami, Florida (2/1/2017)

        Click here for the PowerPoint, here for the case information, and here for the resource materials


      "Lucas 25 Years Later: Has the Sky Fallen?" presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the annual American Law Institute’s CLE conference Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation 2017 in San Diego (1/26/2017)
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        • Lucas 25 Years Later: Has the Sky Fallen?

        "Lucas 25 Years Later: Has the Sky Fallen?" presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the annual American Law Institute’s CLE conference Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation 2017 in San Diego (1/26/2017)

        Mr. Merriam examined the implications 25 years after the ruling in Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council, where the Supreme Court established the premier categorical takings standard, and whether its application still matters even though Lucas remains the controlling law. Click here to see the PowerPoint for the session.


      "2016 Cases of the Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) (1/9/2017)
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        • 2016 Cases of the Year

        "2016 Cases of the Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) (1/9/2017)

        The session focused on the key land use decisions and developments in 2016 that had the most impact on land use law along with the lessons learned. Click here to view the PowerPoint and here to view the resource materials.


      "The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the National CLE Conference, held in Snowmass, Colorado (1/6/2017)
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        • The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year

        "The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the National CLE Conference, held in Snowmass, Colorado (1/6/2017)

        Mr. Merriam discussed key land use decisions and developments in 2016 as well as the lessons learned in the process. Click here to view the PowerPoint and here to view the resource materials.


      "Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderator of webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/14/2016)
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        • Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing

        "Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderator of webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/14/2016)

        The guest speaker was Professor Arthur C. Nelson of the University of Arizona. The presentation focused on the advantages of public finance in incentivizing private development with public-private partnerships. Click here to view the PowerPoint.


      "Disparate Impact Liability and the Fair Housing Act," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association, co-moderated with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (12/12/2016)
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        • Disparate Impact Liability and the Fair Housing Act

        "Disparate Impact Liability and the Fair Housing Act," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association, co-moderated with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (12/12/2016)

        The guest speaker was Brian Connolly of Otten Johnson Robinson Neff & Ragonetti. The point of discussion was the U.S. Supreme Court's 2015 decision in Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs v. Inclusive Communities Project and how it brought clarity to whether disparate impact liability exists under the Fair Housing Act. The panelists reviewed the case and outcome and discussed its implications for local governments. Click here to view the session’s PowerPoint and here to view the resource materials.


      "Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 15th annual Alfred B. DelBello Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at the Land Use Law Center at Pace Law School (12/8/2016)
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        • Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning

        "Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the 15th annual Alfred B. DelBello Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at the Land Use Law Center at Pace Law School (12/8/2016)

        Mr. Merriam and his co-presenters, Donald Elliott, director of Clarion Associates; John Nolon, professor at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University; and Michael Wolf, professor at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, spoke about recent high court cases challenging local zoning officials in the session "Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning." They specifically addressed the challenges, including the legality of mandatory affordable housing requirements, the vulnerability of existing zoning to discrimination challenges under the Fair Housing Act, shifting judicial standards for determining what is a regulatory taking, and new standards for regulating signs.


      "Ethics and the Digital World," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar, sponsored by the American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter (12/7/2016)
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        • Ethics and the Digital World

        "Ethics and the Digital World," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar, sponsored by the American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter (12/7/2016)

        The discussion focused on ethical considerations in the digital world in terms of the effects of smart cities, social media, and online data and tools in the area of planning and provided insight on the issues of privacy, access, application, and the nature of information and how it is shared. Presenting with Mr. Merriam were David Fields of Nelson\Nygaard; Julie Tapendorf of Ancel Glink Diamond Bush DiCianni & Krafthefer; and Jerry Weitz of Jerry Weitz & Associates. Click here to view the PowerPoint for the session.


      "Urban Agriculture," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Sorell E. Negro, webinar, sponsored by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (11/14/2016)
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        • Urban Agriculture

        "Urban Agriculture," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Sorell E. Negro, webinar, sponsored by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (11/14/2016)

        Ms. Negro, along with Martha Chumbler of Carlton Fields Jorden Burt in Tallahassee, Florida, presented on a range of issues relating to the increasing interest in agricultural production in urban and peri-urban settings, including the land use and regulatory measures that either incentivize or present roadblocks to such activities. Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Dwight H. Merriam co-moderated the webinar with Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri. Click here to see the PowerPoint. Click here to see the resource materials.


      "Protecting the Public through Hazard Mitigation Planning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Connecticut Association of Flood Manager's Annual Conference and Meeting in West Haven, Connecticut (10/25/2016)
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        • Protecting the Public through Hazard Mitigation Planning

        "Protecting the Public through Hazard Mitigation Planning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Connecticut Association of Flood Manager's Annual Conference and Meeting in West Haven, Connecticut (10/25/2016)

        Mr. Merriam spoke about hazard mitigation, the action the public and private sectors take to reduce risk of death, injury, and property damage from hazards. He also offered a rational planning model to implement hazard mitigation. Click here to view his PowerPoint. 


      "Food and the First Amendment," co-presented by Brian R. Smith and Karla L. Chaffee, at the SNEAPA 2016 Conference in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/21/2016)

      "Ethics for Planners in the Digital Age," presented by Brian R. Smith, at the SNEAPA 2016 Conference in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/21/2016)

      "Recent Developments in Land Use Law," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the SNEAPA 2016 Conference in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/20/2016)
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        • Recent Developments in Land Use Law

        "Recent Developments in Land Use Law," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the SNEAPA 2016 Conference in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/20/2016)

        Click here for his PowerPoint and here for his resource materials.


      "The Impacts of New Housing Options on Infrastructure Needs," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Don Elliott of Clarion Associates and Jim Johnson of Johnson Nathan Strohe, at the 22nd Annual Growth and Infrastructure Consortium in Denver (10/13/2016)
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        • The Impacts of New Housing Options on Infrastructure Needs

        "The Impacts of New Housing Options on Infrastructure Needs," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Don Elliott of Clarion Associates and Jim Johnson of Johnson Nathan Strohe, at the 22nd Annual Growth and Infrastructure Consortium in Denver (10/13/2016)

        The theme of the conference was "The Intersection of Infrastructure and Technology." Click here for the PowerPoint.


      "Recent Developments in Regulating Fracking Activities," published in Zoning Practice, authored by Sorell E. Negro (October 2016)
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        • Recent Developments in Regulating Fracking Activities

        "Recent Developments in Regulating Fracking Activities," published in Zoning Practice, authored by Sorell E. Negro (October 2016)

        The article discusses the controversial debate over setback requirements, innovations in regulations related to the recycling of wastewater, the legality of moratoriums and bans on fracking, and the potential applicability of cooperative federalism.

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      "The Status of the Law of Eminent Domain in Connecticut and Nationwide," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian R. Smith, to the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association (10/5/2016)
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        • The Status of the Law of Eminent Domain in Connecticut and Nationwide

        "The Status of the Law of Eminent Domain in Connecticut and Nationwide," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian R. Smith, to the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association (10/5/2016)

        Mr. Smith discussed prior case law and statutory amendments to the Connecticut General Statutes that arose due to fallout from the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. New London. Mr. Merriam discussed the state of the law of eminent domain from the nationwide perspective. He also led a discussion on alternatives to eminent domain and possible reforms as detailed in his soon-to-be-published article in the Connecticut Law Review. 

      • View article

      "Land Use Law," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, participated as a faculty member at the Annual Meeting of the International Municipal Lawyers Association's Institute of Local Government Lawyers in San Diego (9/28/2016)
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        • Land Use Law

        "Land Use Law," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, participated as a faculty member at the Annual Meeting of the International Municipal Lawyers Association's Institute of Local Government Lawyers in San Diego (9/28/2016)

        Click here for his PowerPoint and here for his resource materials.


      "Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Humphries of the Queen's Counsel, at the Annual General Meeting of the Anglo-American Real Property Institute (AARPI) in London (9/16/2016)
      • » more info

        • Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century

        "Retrofitting Our Cities for the 21st Century," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Humphries of the Queen's Counsel, at the Annual General Meeting of the Anglo-American Real Property Institute (AARPI) in London (9/16/2016)

        Click here to view the PowerPoint.


      "Taking the Disaster Out of Disaster Recovery," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (9/12/2016)
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        • Taking the Disaster Out of Disaster Recovery

        "Taking the Disaster Out of Disaster Recovery," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (9/12/2016)

        The guest speaker was James C. Schwab, manager of the American Planning Association's Hazards Planning Center. The discussion explored ways to reduce the impacts of disasters and what to do before disasters strike. Mr. Schwab presented the audience with tools and techniques and spotlighted communities with best practices. Click here for the PowerPoint.


      "Inclusionary Zoning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) with Daniel R. Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law (8/8/2016)
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        • Inclusionary Zoning

        "Inclusionary Zoning," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) with Daniel R. Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law (8/8/2016)

        The guest speaker was Brian Stromberg, housing research specialist with the National Housing Conference. In the context of the continuing affordable housing crisis, the webinar focused on the nature and extent of the problems, what municipalities have found to be successful (and not so successful), proven and promising strategies, and what local government lawyers and planners can do to meet the demand for more affordable housing. Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the resource materials.


      "Urban Agriculture," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the 30th Annual Environmental Permitting Summer School, a conference sponsored by the Florida Chamber Foundation (7/20/2016)
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        • Urban Agriculture

        "Urban Agriculture," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the 30th Annual Environmental Permitting Summer School, a conference sponsored by the Florida Chamber Foundation (7/20/2016)

        Ms. Negro covered land use regulations and permitting processes related to urban ag activities, as well as whether right-to-farm laws affect urban ag. Also on the panel were Chris Castro, director of sustainability of the City of Orlando; Nicole Penichet, PhD, of Geosyntec; and Martha Chumbler of Carlton Fields Jorden Burt, who, along with Ms. Negro and Lawrence Bechler, co-edited the bookUrban Agriculture: Policy, Law, Strategy, and Implementation (ABA 2015).  


      "Watching Wetlands Like A Hawke: Good News, U.S. Supreme Court Enables Challenges of Jurisdictional Determinations," published in The Municipal Law Quarterly, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam, Kirsten M. Yerger and Kirsten Yerger, a publication of the Massachusetts Municipal Lawyers Association (Summer 2016)
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        • Watching Wetlands Like A Hawke: Good News, U.S. Supreme Court Enables Challenges of Jurisdictional Determinations

        "Watching Wetlands Like A Hawke: Good News, U.S. Supreme Court Enables Challenges of Jurisdictional Determinations," published in The Municipal Law Quarterly, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam, Kirsten M. Yerger and Kirsten Yerger, a publication of the Massachusetts Municipal Lawyers Association (Summer 2016)

        The article addresses the unclear guidelines associated with identifying wetlands. Ms. Yerger and Mr. Merriam discuss the impact of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in United States Army Corps of Engineers v. Hawkes on municipalities and conclude that "Hawkes is good for all concerned and it was a long time in coming. The net result should be more speed and certainty in development, less time and money spent in fighting over projects underway in disputed areas, and better protection for the valuable wetlands resources so critically important to sustainability." 

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      "Short-Term Rentals: Are They Giving You Sleepless Nights?" presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (7/11/2016)
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        • Short-Term Rentals: Are They Giving You Sleepless Nights?

        "Short-Term Rentals: Are They Giving You Sleepless Nights?" presented by Dwight H. Merriam, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (7/11/2016)

        The session discussed the challenges that accompany regulating short-term rentals and how regulations have evolved over time to meet those challenges. Austin, Texas, was used as an example throughout the webinar, as it has been one of the "ground zero" cities for handling short-term rentals. The guest speaker was Patricia "Trish" Link, a lawyer with the City of Austin's Law Department. Click here, here, and here to view the materials for the session.


      "Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) with Daniel R. Mandelker, FAICP, professor at the Washington University School of Law (6/13/2016)
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        • Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing

        "Show Me the Money – Real Estate Financing," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) with Daniel R. Mandelker, FAICP, professor at the Washington University School of Law (6/13/2016)

        Their guest was Arthur Christian Nelson, FAICP, associate dean for research and discovery and professor at the University of Arizona's College of Architecture, Planning & Landscape Architecture. The panel discussion focused on the basics of public-private partnerships (P3) and how they are key to redevelopment and new development in terms of leveraging the advantages of public finance to incentivize private development. Click here to view the session's PowerPoint.


      "Airbnb & Zoning: A Planner & Lawyer's Guide to Short-Term Rentals," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Troy Flanagan of the American Hotel and Lodging Association; George Proakis, director of planning for the City of Somerville, Massachusetts; and Ulrik Binzer, CEO of Host Compliance, panel discussion sponsored by the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (6/6/2016)
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        • Airbnb & Zoning: A Planner & Lawyer's Guide to Short-Term Rentals

        "Airbnb & Zoning: A Planner & Lawyer's Guide to Short-Term Rentals," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Troy Flanagan of the American Hotel and Lodging Association; George Proakis, director of planning for the City of Somerville, Massachusetts; and Ulrik Binzer, CEO of Host Compliance, panel discussion sponsored by the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (6/6/2016)

        Mr. Merriam and his co-presenters provided insight into the common pitfalls that local governments run into when trying to regulate short-term rentals; the best practices for incorporating local housing and community development objectives into short-term rental regulation; the challenges of monitoring compliance with, and enforcing, short-term rental regulations; and the best ways to overcome the compliance and enforcement challenges. The moderator was Leonard Cohen of Pace Law School. Click here, here, here, and here to view the materials for the session.


      "Five Tips for Planners and Planning Commissioners Reviewing Religious Land Use Applications," published in Connecticut Planning, co-authored by Evan J. Seeman and Brian R. Smith, a publication of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (Spring 2016)
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        • Five Tips for Planners and Planning Commissioners Reviewing Religious Land Use Applications

        "Five Tips for Planners and Planning Commissioners Reviewing Religious Land Use Applications," published in Connecticut Planning, co-authored by Evan J. Seeman and Brian R. Smith, a publication of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (Spring 2016)

        The article is based on Mr. Seeman's and Mr. Smith's experience representing a Connecticut soup kitchen in the local zoning process and subsequent federal litigation. They discuss lessons learned in their experience and provide a handful of tips for land use agencies reviewing applications for proposed religious uses.

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      "The Internet: Challenges to Peace and Freedom," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the World Jurist Association Conference in Barcelona, Spain (5/20/2016)
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        • The Internet: Challenges to Peace and Freedom

        "The Internet: Challenges to Peace and Freedom," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the World Jurist Association Conference in Barcelona, Spain (5/20/2016)

        Ms. Negro discussed opportunities and challenges related to the use of electronic information and social media in international land use cases and recent developments in case law regarding government regulation of social media in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2015 decision in Reed v. Gilbert. Also on Ms. Negro's panel were Ben Griffith of the Griffith Law Firm in Oxford, Mississippi; Sven Kohlmeier, attorney and member of the Deputy's Chamber of Berlin; and Agustin Cerrillo, professor of administrative law at Universitat Oberta de Catalunya.

        Click here for Ms. Negro's PowerPoint and here for her paper on the topic.


      "Planning Ethics – Dealing With Problem Boards and Board Members," presented by Katherine C. Bailey, moderated panel, which was sponsored by the American Planning Association's (APA) chapters and divisions (4/29/2016)
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        • Planning Ethics – Dealing With Problem Boards and Board Members

        "Planning Ethics – Dealing With Problem Boards and Board Members," presented by Katherine C. Bailey, moderated panel, which was sponsored by the American Planning Association's (APA) chapters and divisions (4/29/2016)

        The speakers, Nancy Letendre, AICP; Bob Mitchell, FAICP; and Kristin Kassner, AICP, discussed situations where a board member or an entire board "goes rogue," acting unethically or even illegally. The session explored such instances through video scenarios, discussion among the panelists, and audience participation through interactive polling. The panel also discussed recent changes to the AICP Code of Ethics.


      "To Regulate or Not to Regulate? Short-Term Rentals and the Hard Questions Municipalities Are Starting to Ask," published in Planning & Law, authored by Karla L. Chaffee (Spring 2016)
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        • To Regulate or Not to Regulate? Short-Term Rentals and the Hard Questions Municipalities Are Starting to Ask

        "To Regulate or Not to Regulate? Short-Term Rentals and the Hard Questions Municipalities Are Starting to Ask," published in Planning & Law, authored by Karla L. Chaffee (Spring 2016)

        Ms. Chaffee discusses concerns of some municipalities regarding short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO, and FlipKey. Many community planners question whether these short-terms rentals can and should be regulated. She looks into the unintended consequences of short-term rentals, their positive side, and whether they should be regulated.

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      "They Can Take Our Raisins, But They Will Never Take Our Freedom: The Supreme Court 'Raisin Case' Part Deux," published in Planning & Law, authored by Evan J. Seeman (Spring 2016)
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        • They Can Take Our Raisins, But They Will Never Take Our Freedom: The Supreme Court 'Raisin Case' Part Deux

        "They Can Take Our Raisins, But They Will Never Take Our Freedom: The Supreme Court 'Raisin Case' Part Deux," published in Planning & Law, authored by Evan J. Seeman (Spring 2016)

        Mr. Seeman discusses the case Horne v. Department of Agriculture, where the Supreme Court rules that the federal government's requirement that raisin growers give up a percentage of their crops free of charge is an unconstitutional taking of property under the Fifth Amendment. He states, "While the regulation of raisin sales does not involve traditional planning principles or even land use, it is an important decision that could lead to new challenges for local governments in land use regulation."

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      "Planning for a Digital Age," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, panelist as part of the 70th anniversary of the University of North Carolina's (UNC) Department of City and Regional Planning (DCRP) (4/16/2016)
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        • Planning for a Digital Age

        "Planning for a Digital Age," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, panelist as part of the 70th anniversary of the University of North Carolina's (UNC) Department of City and Regional Planning (DCRP) (4/16/2016)

        His co-panelists were Christa Wagner Vinson of the City of Charlotte's Office of Energy & Sustainability; Corey Teague, assistant zoning administrator of San Francisco's Planning Department; and Matt Tomasulo, entrepreneurial designer, civic instigator, and founder of Walk [your city], all DCRP alums.


      "Don't Bogart That Joint, My Friend!," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/11/2016)
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        • Don't Bogart That Joint, My Friend!

        "Don't Bogart That Joint, My Friend!," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/11/2016)

        The session examined medical marijuana and recreational initiatives across the country, how to plan and regulate for these uses, and the rapid expansion of such initiatives. Guest panelists were Thomas Ragonetti of Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti in Denver, Colorado, and Marc Painter of Holland & Hart in Boulder, Colorado. Click here for a copy of the PowerPoint and here for the supplemental materials.


      "Hot Topics in Land Use Law Lunch," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Dwight H. Merriam, at the ABA Section of State and Local Government Law's Spring Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico (4/8/2016)
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        • Hot Topics in Land Use Law Lunch

        "Hot Topics in Land Use Law Lunch," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Dwight H. Merriam, at the ABA Section of State and Local Government Law's Spring Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico (4/8/2016)

        This annual event features updates and hot topics in land use law. Ms. Negro presented on recent developments in the regulation of urban agriculture. Mr. Merriam moderated the program and presented on recent Supreme Court decisions and upcoming Supreme Court cases. The other speakers were Jessica Bacher, executive director of the Land Use Law Center at Pace University School of Law in White Plains, New York; Andy Gowder of Pratt-Thomas Walker in Charleston, South Carolina; Jerome Hatfield, regional administrator for FEMA Region II in New York City; Erica Levine Powers, environmental lawyer in Albany, New York; and Robert Saunooke of the Saunooke Law Firm in Miramar, Florida. Please click here for Mr. Merriam's PowerPoint and here for his materials.


      "Planning As If 'Black Lives Matter'," presented by Brian R. Smith, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)
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        • Planning As If 'Black Lives Matter'

        "Planning As If 'Black Lives Matter'," presented by Brian R. Smith, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)

        Click here to see the PowerPoint.


      "Social Equity and Planning in the 21st Century: 2016 Diversity Summit," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)
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        • Social Equity and Planning in the 21st Century: 2016 Diversity Summit

        "Social Equity and Planning in the 21st Century: 2016 Diversity Summit," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)

        Click here and here to see the PowerPoints.


      "Design Practices That Help Build Thriving Communities," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)
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        • Design Practices That Help Build Thriving Communities

        "Design Practices That Help Build Thriving Communities," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)

        Click here to view the PowerPoints – here, here, here, and here.


      "Planning Ethics: The Reality TV Show," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)
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        • Planning Ethics: The Reality TV Show

        "Planning Ethics: The Reality TV Show," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/4/2016)

        Click the links to see the presentation videos – Hypothetical 1, Hypothetical 2, and Hypothetical 3.  


      "Planning for Water-Neutral Development," co-presented by Michael J. Mernin and Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)
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        • Planning for Water-Neutral Development

        "Planning for Water-Neutral Development," co-presented by Michael J. Mernin and Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)

        Click here to see the PowerPoint.


      "The Ethical Planning Practitioner," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)
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        • The Ethical Planning Practitioner

        "The Ethical Planning Practitioner," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)

        Click here to see the PowerPoint.


      "FHA, RLUIPA & Telecommunications Act Compliance," presented by Evan J. Seeman, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)
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        • FHA, RLUIPA & Telecommunications Act Compliance

        "FHA, RLUIPA & Telecommunications Act Compliance," presented by Evan J. Seeman, at the American Planning Association's (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (4/3/2016)

        Click here to see the PowerPoint.


      "Congratulations to Sorell Negro, Finalist for National Outstanding Young Lawyer Award" (3/23/2016)

      "Supreme Court Review," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the MCLE's 14th Annual Municipal Law Conference 2016 in Boston (3/16/2016)
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        • Supreme Court Review

        "Supreme Court Review," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the MCLE's 14th Annual Municipal Law Conference 2016 in Boston (3/16/2016)

        Mr. Merriam provided an update on the municipal law cases decided by the U.S. Supreme Court in the last term and described some upcoming cases of note. Click here for a copy of his PowerPoint and here for a copy of his resource materials.


      "Planning and Regulating for Sexually Oriented Businesses," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated a webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of Washington University School of Law in St. Louis for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (3/14/2016)
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        • Planning and Regulating for Sexually Oriented Businesses

        "Planning and Regulating for Sexually Oriented Businesses," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated a webinar with Professor Daniel Mandelker of Washington University School of Law in St. Louis for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (3/14/2016)

        The guest speaker was Professor Alan Weinstein of the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law & Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. Click here for the PowerPoint and here for the outline


      "Housing in the West," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian Connolly, a lawyer at Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti in Denver, and Chris Nelson, a professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, at the 25th Anniversary of the Annual Land Use Conference of the Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute (RMLUI) in Denver, Colorado (3/11/2016)
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        • Housing in the West

        "Housing in the West," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian Connolly, a lawyer at Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti in Denver, and Chris Nelson, a professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, at the 25th Anniversary of the Annual Land Use Conference of the Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute (RMLUI) in Denver, Colorado (3/11/2016)

        The presenters addressed RMLUI's housing issues by looking back over the past 25 years as well as by looking forward to what may happen in the next 25 years.

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      "Fortress Mentality: Why Gated Communities Are Not the Answer," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderator, at 25th Anniversary of the Annual Land Use Conference of the Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute (RMLUI) in Denver, Colorado (3/11/2016)

      "Green New World: Challenges of Marijuana Legalization," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, at the Land Use Committee Meeting of the ABA's State and Local Government Law Section (2/12/2016)
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        • Green New World: Challenges of Marijuana Legalization

        "Green New World: Challenges of Marijuana Legalization," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, at the Land Use Committee Meeting of the ABA's State and Local Government Law Section (2/12/2016)

        Ms. Chaffee addressed the conflicts arising between federal and state law and how many municipalities in these states that have legalized medical marijuana contend with issues involving planning and zoning for marijuana dispensaries. Presently, 23 states and the District of Columbia have laws legalizing medical marijuana.


      "Reed v. Town of Gilbert," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Mark Cordes, interim dean and professor at the Northern Illinois University College of Law, at University of Florida Levin College of Law's 15th Annual Richard E. Nelson Symposium in Gainesville, Florida (2/5/2016)
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        • Reed v. Town of Gilbert

        "Reed v. Town of Gilbert," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Mark Cordes, interim dean and professor at the Northern Illinois University College of Law, at University of Florida Levin College of Law's 15th Annual Richard E. Nelson Symposium in Gainesville, Florida (2/5/2016)

        Ms. Negro spoke on Reed v. Town of Gilbert, decided by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 18, 2015. She discussed the scope of permissible content discrimination under the First Amendment pursuant to Reed, not only as applied to signage regulations, as in the Reed case, but also to other types of regulations. She analyzed the significant impact Reed has been having on a variety of First Amendment cases in the lower courts over the last seven months and some significant questions that are still open-ended, including whether Reed will be applied to regulation of commercial speech and adult entertainment zoning. Click here to view the presentation's PowerPoint.

         


      "The Year in Review," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, International Municipal Lawyers Association webinar; moderated with Professor Daniel R. Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (1/11/2016)
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        • The Year in Review

        "The Year in Review," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, International Municipal Lawyers Association webinar; moderated with Professor Daniel R. Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law (1/11/2016)

        The session highlighted significant land use developments of 2015. The panelists were Professor Peter Salsich of the St. Louis University School of Law, Professor Stuart Meck of Rutgers University's School of Planning and Public Policy, and Nancy Stroud of Lewis Stroud & Deutsch in Boca Raton, Florida. Click here to see his PowerPoint and here to see his resource materials.


      "The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Colorado Bar Association's Annual National CLE Conference in Vail, Colorado (1/8/2016)
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        • The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year

        "The Top Ten Land Use Law Decisions and Developments in the Past Year," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, at the Colorado Bar Association's Annual National CLE Conference in Vail, Colorado (1/8/2016)

        Please click here to view his PowerPoint and here to view his resource materials.


         


      "Fracking Redux," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Daniel Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri (12/14/2015)
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        • Fracking Redux

        "Fracking Redux," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-moderated webinar with Daniel Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri (12/14/2015)

        Land use lawyer Sorell E. Negro, along with Erica Levine Powers, an environmental and energy lawyer in Albany, New York, presented on land use and planning issues related to impacts on communities from oil and gas development, including housing, economic, and health impacts, and discussed how state and federal laws may affect local land use planning efforts. Click here to see the PowerPoint. Click here to see the resources.

         


      "Fracking Redux," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Erica Levine Powers, an environmental and energy lawyer in Albany, New York, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/14/2015)
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        • Fracking Redux

        "Fracking Redux," co-presented by Sorell E. Negro and Erica Levine Powers, an environmental and energy lawyer in Albany, New York, webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/14/2015)

        The presenters discussed land use and planning issues related to impacts on communities from oil and gas development, including housing, economic, and health impacts, and discussed how state and federal laws may affect local land use planning efforts. Land use lawyer Dwight H. Merriam co-moderated the webinar with Daniel Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri. Click here to see the PowerPoint. Click here to see the resources.

         


      "Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Allan Wolf, professor at the Levin College of Law, University of Florida; Don Elliott of Clarion Associates in Denver, Colorado; Patricia Salkin, dean of the Touro Law School; and John Nolon, professor at Pace Law School, at annual Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at Pace Law School (12/11/2015)
      • » more info

        • Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning

        "Case Law Update: Recent Challenges to Zoning," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Allan Wolf, professor at the Levin College of Law, University of Florida; Don Elliott of Clarion Associates in Denver, Colorado; Patricia Salkin, dean of the Touro Law School; and John Nolon, professor at Pace Law School, at annual Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at Pace Law School (12/11/2015)

        The session addressed the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Gilbert, Arizona. Click here for a copy of the PowerPoint.


      "Reflecting on the Past, Planning for the Future: Celebrating 100 Years of Zoning," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Allan Wolf, professor at the Levin College of Law, University of Florida; Don Elliott of Clarion Associates in Denver, Colorado; Patricia Salkin, dean of the Touro Law School; and John Nolon, professor at Pace Law School, at annual Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at Pace Law School (12/11/2015)
      • » more info

        • Reflecting on the Past, Planning for the Future: Celebrating 100 Years of Zoning

        "Reflecting on the Past, Planning for the Future: Celebrating 100 Years of Zoning," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Michael Allan Wolf, professor at the Levin College of Law, University of Florida; Don Elliott of Clarion Associates in Denver, Colorado; Patricia Salkin, dean of the Touro Law School; and John Nolon, professor at Pace Law School, at annual Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference at Pace Law School (12/11/2015)

        In this opening plenary session, the panelists spoke on the impact of technology on zoning practice, which coincided with the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the first zoning ordinance.


      "Planning for Medical Marijuana Facilities in Massachusetts," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, Berkshire County Regional Planning Commission (10/29/2015)
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        • Planning for Medical Marijuana Facilities in Massachusetts

        "Planning for Medical Marijuana Facilities in Massachusetts," presented by Karla L. Chaffee, Berkshire County Regional Planning Commission (10/29/2015)

        Ms. Chaffee spoke about medical marijuana facilities in Massachusetts, a hot topic for many communities since the first Registered Marijuana Dispensaries have been approved to operate in Massachusetts. She spoke to the audience, local officials, and planning staff from Berkshire County about the law enacting the medical use and what it requires, how to become a Registered Marijuana Dispensary, and municipal options, among other topics. Please click here to view the session's PowerPoint.


      "Planning Law Makes National Headlines," published in End of Summer News & Updates (End of Summer)
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        • Planning Law Makes National Headlines

        "Planning Law Makes National Headlines," published in End of Summer News & Updates (End of Summer)

        Based on blog postings by Karla L. Chaffee, Evan J. Seeman, and Brian J. Connolly of Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti, on June 22 and June 30, 2015, at www.RLUIPA-Defense.com, Mr. Merriam provides commentary on the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Gilbert, stating that the case is a wake-up call for communities to review their own bylaws and ordinances on signs. The result is that most local governments should take a look at their sign codes post-Reed to eliminate content-based distinctions.


      "The Promise and Challenge of Planning and Zoning for Group Homes," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian J. Connolly, a lawyer at Otten Johnson Robinson Neff & Ragonetti in Denver, Colorado (2/2015)
      • » more info

        • The Promise and Challenge of Planning and Zoning for Group Homes

        "The Promise and Challenge of Planning and Zoning for Group Homes," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Brian J. Connolly, a lawyer at Otten Johnson Robinson Neff & Ragonetti in Denver, Colorado (2/2015)

        The article discusses discrimination against people with disabilities, the political and social challenges of providing housing for those with disabilities, and federal and state antidiscrimination laws, among other relevant topics.

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      "Planning Law Makes National Headlines," published in End of Summer News & Updates, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (End of Summer 2015)
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        • Planning Law Makes National Headlines

        "Planning Law Makes National Headlines," published in End of Summer News & Updates, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (End of Summer 2015)

        Based on blog postings by Karla L. Chaffee, Evan J. Seeman, and Brian J. Connolly of Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti, on June 22 and June 30, 2015, at www.RLUIPA-Defense.com, Mr. Merriam provides commentary in the newsletter for the American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter on the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Gilbert, stating that the case is a wake-up call for communities to review their own bylaws and ordinances on signs. The result is that most local governments should take a look at their sign codes post-Reed to eliminate content-based distinctions.

      • View article

      "Planning for Religious Uses under RLUIPA," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and James Kennedy, city solicitor of Concord, New Hampshire, and Daniel Crean of the Crean Law Office in Pembroke, New Hampshire, presented before members of the New Hampshire Municipal Lawyers Association (NHMLA) (11/12/2015)
      • » more info

        • Planning for Religious Uses under RLUIPA

        "Planning for Religious Uses under RLUIPA," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and James Kennedy, city solicitor of Concord, New Hampshire, and Daniel Crean of the Crean Law Office in Pembroke, New Hampshire, presented before members of the New Hampshire Municipal Lawyers Association (NHMLA) (11/12/2015)

        Mr. Merriam addressed these topics: the historical perspective and evolution of the First Amendment and sign regulation and changes resulting from Reed v. Gilbert; perspectives on electronic, changeable text sign regulation; and understanding and complying with RLUIPA and the First Amendment in terms of signs and religion. For more specifics, please click here to view the PowerPoint for the session.


      "Comprehensive Plans," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Edward J. Sullivan and Carrie Richter, lawyers in the law office of Garvey Schubert Barer in Portland, Oregon, and Daniel Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri, at webinar (11/9/2015)
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        • Comprehensive Plans

        "Comprehensive Plans," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Edward J. Sullivan and Carrie Richter, lawyers in the law office of Garvey Schubert Barer in Portland, Oregon, and Daniel Mandelker, professor at the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri, at webinar (11/9/2015)

        Mr. Merriam discussed the turbulent legal landscape of local planning. Please click here to see the PowerPoint for the webinar.


      "Nibbling Around the Edges of Perennial Issues," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (9/14/2015)
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        • Nibbling Around the Edges of Perennial Issues

        "Nibbling Around the Edges of Perennial Issues," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (9/14/2015)

        Mr. Merriam writes that, although there were some important land use cases in the Supreme Court this year, some interesting ones nibbled "around the edges of several perennial issues." These key cases addressed aggrievement questions and zoning variances.

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      "The Birds and the Bees: Recent Developments in Urban Agriculture," published in The Urban Lawyer, co-authored by Sorell E. Negro and Jean Terranova, Esq. (Summer 2015)
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        • The Birds and the Bees: Recent Developments in Urban Agriculture

        "The Birds and the Bees: Recent Developments in Urban Agriculture," published in The Urban Lawyer, co-authored by Sorell E. Negro and Jean Terranova, Esq. (Summer 2015)

        This article discusses recent developments and trends in the regulation of urban agriculture, including the new ordinances passed in Hartford, Connecticut, and Boston, Massachusetts; state preemption of local restrictions on beekeeping; using urban ag to significantly increase economic activity; and the growth of urban ag internationally.


      "Introducing our Northeast Development Law Blog" (8/10/2015)

      "U.S. House Passes Bill to Revise Corps and EPA Definition of “Waters of the United States”" (5/15/2015)

      "Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues," at the ABA's Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law's (RPTE) Spring Symposia in Washington, DC (5/1/2015)
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        • Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues

        "Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues," at the ABA's Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law's (RPTE) Spring Symposia in Washington, DC (5/1/2015)

        Christie D. Jean moderated the panel and Sorell E. Negro was a speaker. The session focused on strategies that state and local governments are employing to prepare for, adapt to, or mitigate against sea level rise; how these regulatory developments affect real property lawyers; and areas of increased litigation involving property rights implicated by state and local responses. Other panelists included Jessica Grannis, adaptation program manager for the Georgetown Climate Center; Kenneth Kristl, professor of law and director of the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Clinic at Widener University School of Law; and Kate Zyla, deputy director of Georgetown's Climate Center.


      "Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the ABA's Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law's (RPTE) Spring Symposia in Washington, DC (5/1/2015)
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        • Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues

        "Sea Level Rise and Property Rights: Recent Cases and Surging Issues," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the ABA's Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law's (RPTE) Spring Symposia in Washington, DC (5/1/2015)

        Christie D. Jean moderated the panel and Sorell E. Negro was a speaker. The session focused on strategies that state and local governments are employing to prepare for, adapt to, or mitigate against sea level rise; how these regulatory developments affect real property lawyers; and areas of increased litigation involving property rights implicated by state and local responses. Other panelists included Jessica Grannis, adaptation program manager for the Georgetown Climate Center; Kenneth Kristl, professor of law and director of the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Clinic at Widener University School of Law; and Kate Zyla, deputy director of Georgetown's Climate Center.

         


      "Recent Developments in Regulating Urban Agriculture," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the Land Use Hot Topics Lunch at the ABA's Section of State and Local Government Law Spring Meeting in Philadelphia (4/24/2015)
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        • Recent Developments in Regulating Urban Agriculture

        "Recent Developments in Regulating Urban Agriculture," presented by Sorell E. Negro, at the Land Use Hot Topics Lunch at the ABA's Section of State and Local Government Law Spring Meeting in Philadelphia (4/24/2015)

        Ms. Negro spoke about new and proposed laws, and trends, in regulating urban agriculture, including Hartford's recently adopted urban agriculture ordinance and partnerships between cities and the private sector for urban agricultural development projects.


      "Legalized Cannabis: Its Impact on the Real Estate Market and the Community," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderated panel at the Counselors of Real Estate (CRE) Midyear Meeting in Denver, Colorado (4/20/2015)
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        • Legalized Cannabis: Its Impact on the Real Estate Market and the Community

        "Legalized Cannabis: Its Impact on the Real Estate Market and the Community," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderated panel at the Counselors of Real Estate (CRE) Midyear Meeting in Denver, Colorado (4/20/2015)

        So far, 4 states have legalized recreational marijuana, 23 have legalized it for medical purposes, and 12 more will include the issue on the 2016 ballot. As a result, implications abound for all kinds of properties, from residential to industrial to retail, as marijuana becomes legal in more states throughout the country. The discussion addressed the obvious and not-so-obvious aspects of this legislation. The speakers included Chad Brue, owner of Brue Capital Partners; Robert Hoban, managing partner at Hoban & Feola; and Jason Thomas, real estate and business consultant at Avalon Realty Advisors.


      "2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," spoke during lunch at Wesleyan University at the all-day seminar "Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions," sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section (3/21/2015)
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        • 2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards

        "2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," spoke during lunch at Wesleyan University at the all-day seminar "Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions," sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section (3/21/2015)

        Click here to view Mr. Merriam's PowerPoint and here to view his published article in the Zoning and Planning Law Report.

         


      "2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, spoke during lunch at the all-day seminar "Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions," sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section, at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut (4/8/2015)
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        • 2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards

        "2014 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, spoke during lunch at the all-day seminar "Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions," sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Planning and Zoning Section, at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut (4/8/2015)

        Click here to view Mr. Merrim's PowerPoint and here to view his published article in the Zoning and Planning Law Report.

         


      "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers," co-presented by Evan J. Seeman, Brian R. Smith and Hiram Peck, AICP, director of community planning & development in Simsbury, Connecticut, and David S. Silverman, AICP, of Ancel Glink in Chicago, Illinois, at webinar sponsored by the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (4/8/2015)
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        • Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers

        "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers," co-presented by Evan J. Seeman, Brian R. Smith and Hiram Peck, AICP, director of community planning & development in Simsbury, Connecticut, and David S. Silverman, AICP, of Ancel Glink in Chicago, Illinois, at webinar sponsored by the American Planning Association's Planning and Law Division (4/8/2015)

        The session covered the primary sources of ethical rules, common ethical mistakes, and procedures to correct common mistakes. On the topic of "Ethical Rules for Lawyers," Mr. Seeman discussed distinct areas of law and regulation, attorney-client privilege, the work product doctrine, the ABA model rules of professional conduct, and common mistakes made by lawyers, among other issues, and Mr. Smith focused on the key issue of identifying the client and social networking as an issue for planners and lawyers.
        Please click here to view the program PowerPoint.


      "Land Use 101: Land Use Law and Zoning from 'Aardvark Shelters' to 'Zydeco Cafes'," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, conducted the webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/6/2015)
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        • Land Use 101: Land Use Law and Zoning from 'Aardvark Shelters' to 'Zydeco Cafes'

        "Land Use 101: Land Use Law and Zoning from 'Aardvark Shelters' to 'Zydeco Cafes'," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, conducted the webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (4/6/2015)

        The session is part of the association's New Government Lawyers Series. Click here to view Mr. Merriam's PowerPoint and here to view his resource materials.


         


      "Eminent Domain for Underwater Mortgages: Already on the Way to the Bottom of the Sea of Bad Ideas," published in The Fee Simple, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (Spring 2015)
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        • Eminent Domain for Underwater Mortgages: Already on the Way to the Bottom of the Sea of Bad Ideas

        "Eminent Domain for Underwater Mortgages: Already on the Way to the Bottom of the Sea of Bad Ideas," published in The Fee Simple, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (Spring 2015)

        The article discusses the foreclosure crisis and how so many homeowners became victims of bad lending practices and a deep economic recession. Many are stuck in their homes, which are underwater with a value far below what was owed on them. Mr. Merriam explores the question: Can eminent domain bail out underwater mortgages? Click here to view the article.*

        *Copyright © 2015. The FEE SIMPLE and Dwight H. Merriam. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission. This material is taken from volume XXXVI, number 1 of the FEE SIMPLE, pp. 20–27 (Spring 2015). The FEE SIMPLE is published by the Real Property Section of the Virginia State Bar and is available for purchase from the Virginia State Bar, Eighth & Main Building, 707 East Main St., Suite 1500, Richmond, VA 23219-2800, (804) 775-0500, www.vsb.org.


      "New Land Use Enabling Legislation Needed," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (3/23/2015)
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        • New Land Use Enabling Legislation Needed

        "New Land Use Enabling Legislation Needed," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (3/23/2015)

        Mr. Merriam discusses the need for a complete rewrite of Connecticut's land use enabling legislation, which is based on laws enacted 90 years ago. He writes that updating the legislation would "benefit government, landowners, developers, businesses, neighbors, advocacy organizations, conservation groups, and generations not yet born."

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      "Eminent Domain and Economic Development," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderated panel discussion at the annual Gallivan Conference at the University of Connecticut School of Law, whose theme was Kelo: A Decade Later (3/20/2015)
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        • Eminent Domain and Economic Development

        "Eminent Domain and Economic Development," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderated panel discussion at the annual Gallivan Conference at the University of Connecticut School of Law, whose theme was Kelo: A Decade Later (3/20/2015)

        Panelists included Nicole Stelle Garnett, John P. Murphy Foundation professor at Notre Dame Law School; David Kooris, director of the Office of Planning & Economic Development for Bridgeport, Connecticut; Anita Singh Lemar, clinical associate professor at Yale Law School; and Thomas Miceli, professor at the Department of Economics at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Connecticut. Mr. Merriam is the co-editor of Eminent Domain Use and Abuse: Kelo in the Context (ABA 2006). Click here for information on the book.

         


      "The Returns on Investment in Planning: How Planning and Planners Add Value to the Municipal Team," presented by Linnea C. McCaffrey, moderated and presented this Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) workshop, held at the Hamden Public Library (2/26/2015)
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        • The Returns on Investment in Planning: How Planning and Planners Add Value to the Municipal Team

        "The Returns on Investment in Planning: How Planning and Planners Add Value to the Municipal Team," presented by Linnea C. McCaffrey, moderated and presented this Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) workshop, held at the Hamden Public Library (2/26/2015)

        Hamden Mayor Scott Jackson welcomed an audience of 35 municipal officials, commissioners, and planners from 31 Connecticut towns and cities. Ms. McCaffrey discussed the certified planners' code of ethics and reasons to use professional planners in an era of budgetary constraints. Panelists Michael Goman of Goman+York Property Advisors; Barry Feldman, associate professor of public policy at Trinity College and former town manager of West Hartford; environmental and land use attorney Diane Whitney of Pullman & Comley; and Mark Pellegrini, AICP, director of planning and economic development for the Town of Manchester presented their various perspectives on the benefits of having professional planning staff, the changing role of the municipal planner and municipal government, and what it takes to attract capital and development. Click here to see the PowerPoint of the presentation.


      "The Global Spread of Private Communities," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the International Academic Association on Planning Law and Property Rights (PLPR) Annual Conference in Volos, Greece (2/27/2015)
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        • The Global Spread of Private Communities

        "The Global Spread of Private Communities," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the International Academic Association on Planning Law and Property Rights (PLPR) Annual Conference in Volos, Greece (2/27/2015)

        His presentation, "The Global Spread of Private Communities," focused on a cross-cultural comparison of private residential neighborhoods and its impact on land planning, regulation, and public governance. For more details, click here to view his PowerPoint and here to view his paper.

        The PLPR serves principally as an academic peer group, promoting research and scholarship in planning law and the protection of property rights. Click here to view the PLPR website.


      "Planning and Regulating for Short-Term Residential Rentals," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, spoke at a dinner meeting of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, attended by 60 elected and appointed local officials (1/29/2015)
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        • Planning and Regulating for Short-Term Residential Rentals

        "Planning and Regulating for Short-Term Residential Rentals," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, spoke at a dinner meeting of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, attended by 60 elected and appointed local officials (1/29/2015)

        Mr. Merriam addressed the benefits and burdens of short-term residential rentals, planning for such rentals, permitting issues, and how they are regulated, not only by zoning but also by local housing and building codes. Please click here to view his PowerPoint and here to view his resource list.

         


      "The 2014 ZiPLeRs: The Twentieth Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (January 2015)
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        • The 2014 ZiPLeRs: The Twentieth Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards

        "The 2014 ZiPLeRs: The Twentieth Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (January 2015)

        Mr. Merriam provides details on the winners of the 2014 land use decision awards, ranging from getting ready to celebrate the holidays with Satan and telling your friends why dogs have a legal right to fair housing to knowing what to do with a garage that is five times bigger than its house and experiencing the most thoughtful primer ever on caboose law. To view his thoughts on these topics, among many others, please click here to view the entire article.


      "Want to be an author? Learn how you can get published by the American Bar Association!," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, along with staff of the State and Local Government Section of the ABA and Martha Chumbler of Carlton Fields Jorden Burt, LLP, conducted a teleconference for ABA members (1/20/2015)
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        • Want to be an author? Learn how you can get published by the American Bar Association!

        "Want to be an author? Learn how you can get published by the American Bar Association!," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, along with staff of the State and Local Government Section of the ABA and Martha Chumbler of Carlton Fields Jorden Burt, LLP, conducted a teleconference for ABA members (1/20/2015)

        The program covered these topics: submitting a proposal, how proposals are reviewed, the process of publishing a book, timelines for publication, and lessons learned from successful authors.


      "Environmental Risk in the Real World," co-presented by Karla L. Chaffee and Christopher Foster, participated in a panel discussion on behalf of the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC) in Boston, Massachusetts (1/15/2015)
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        • Environmental Risk in the Real World

        "Environmental Risk in the Real World," co-presented by Karla L. Chaffee and Christopher Foster, participated in a panel discussion on behalf of the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC) in Boston, Massachusetts (1/15/2015)

        Ms. Chaffee co-moderated the discussion, which included representatives of Santander Bank, Wood Partners, AIG, and Woodard & Curran, that provided perspectives on legal, finance, development, environmental insurance, and risk assessment. The discussion focused on two hypothetical (although based on experience) projects: one concerning arsenic in soils associated with historic farming activities and the other concerning PCBs in building materials discovered mid-redevelopment of a historic mill but before final financing.


      "Wetlands Wisdom," authored by Dwight H. Merriam, published in The Commissioner, a publication of the American Planning Association (December 2014)
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        • Wetlands Wisdom

        "Wetlands Wisdom," authored by Dwight H. Merriam, published in The Commissioner, a publication of the American Planning Association (December 2014)

        In the article, Mr. Merriam discusses the importance of wetlands, specifically covering these topics: the new ethic of wetlands, why commissioners must be knowledgeable, and the basics of wetlands law, which covers applicable laws, what is regulated, what is permitted, and what lies ahead for future generations. To read the full article, please click here.


      "The Wild World of Cannabis: A Quick Trip Through the Civil Law Issues of Medical and Legal Marijuana," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, served as panelist for ABA webinar that focused on the civil law issues implicated in selling and using legal and medical marijuana (1/13/2015)

      "Fracking, Genetically Modified Organisms, Home Rule, and Preemption," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderated American Bar Association webinar; panelists were David L. Callies, FAICP, of the University of Hawai’i and Erica Levine Powers of the University of Albany (SUNY) (12/9/2014)

      "Reefer Madness: Recreational and Medical Cannabis Issues for Local Government Lawyers," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, moderator, presented at American Bar Association's (ABA) Section of State & Local Government Law 2014 Fall Council Meeting (10/10/2014)

      "Implementing Fair Housing: What It Means to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Daniel Mandelker, professor of law at Washington University in Saint Louis, Missouri, presented at International Municipal Lawyers Association webinar (10/14/2014)

      "Robinson+Cole's Education Group Launches HigherEdWire LinkedIn Group" (8/11/2014)

      "Dealing with Vacant Property," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, co-presented with Daniel Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (6/9/2014)

      "Dealing with Vacant Property," presented by Sorell E. Negro, a webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (6/9/2014)
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        • Dealing with Vacant Property

        "Dealing with Vacant Property," presented by Sorell E. Negro, a webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (6/9/2014)

        Discussed tools for dealing with vacant properties, including antiblight ordinances, vacant property registration ordinances, and land banks. The other speakers were Alan Mallach (Brookings Institution) and Michael Braverman (deputy commissioner for Baltimore Housing's Code Enforcement). The webinar was moderated by Dwight H. Merriam of Robinson+Cole and Daniel Mandelker of Washington University School of Law.


      "Dealing with Vacant Property," presented by Alan Mallach of the Brookings Institution and Michael Braverman, deputy commissioner of Baltimore Housing's Code Enforcement, a national webinar for the International Municipal Lawyers Association, presented on tools for dealing with vacant properties, including antiblight ordinances, vacant property registration ordinances, and land banks. (6/9/2014)

      "Tips and Traps in the Land Use Approval Process and Litigation," presented at Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) Law Center in New Britain, Connecticut, co-presented by Evan J. Seeman, Brian R. Smith and the Honorable Marshall K. Berger Jr., presiding judge of the Land Use Litigation Docket; and Hiram Peck, director of Community Planning & Development for the Town of Simsbury, Connecticut (3/31/2014)
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        • Tips and Traps in the Land Use Approval Process and Litigation

        "Tips and Traps in the Land Use Approval Process and Litigation," presented at Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) Law Center in New Britain, Connecticut, co-presented by Evan J. Seeman, Brian R. Smith and the Honorable Marshall K. Berger Jr., presiding judge of the Land Use Litigation Docket; and Hiram Peck, director of Community Planning & Development for the Town of Simsbury, Connecticut (3/31/2014)

        Mr. Seeman moderated the program and Mr. Smith served as a panelist.


      "Understanding Stormwater Management Regulations in New England," co-presented by Brian W. Blaesser and Gregory S. Sampson, presented the first in a series of webinars on stormwater management in New England (1/16/2014)
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        • Understanding Stormwater Management Regulations in New England

        "Understanding Stormwater Management Regulations in New England," co-presented by Brian W. Blaesser and Gregory S. Sampson, presented the first in a series of webinars on stormwater management in New England (1/16/2014)

        This webinar gave an overview of the current regulations governing stormwater and discussed recent initiatives and policy trends at federal, state, and local levels, and corresponding industry concerns.


      "2013 Land Use - The Year in Review," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Professor Daniel Mandelker of Washington University School of Law in St. Louis a national teleconference conducted for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (1/14/2014)
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        • 2013 Land Use - The Year in Review

        "2013 Land Use - The Year in Review," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Professor Daniel Mandelker of Washington University School of Law in St. Louis a national teleconference conducted for the International Municipal Lawyers Association (1/14/2014)

        The panelists included Carol Brown, professor at the University of Richmond School of Law; Peter Salsich, professor at the St. Louis University School of Law; Stuart Meck of the Rutgers Graduate School of Planning; and Nancy Stroud of Lewis Stroud & Deutsch, P.L., in Boca Raton, Florida.


      "The Top Ten Land Use Law decisions of 2013: From Zoning to Regulatory Takings," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the Colorado Bar Association's annual National CLE Conference in Vail, Colorado (1/10/2014)

      "The Thirst of Fracking: Regulating to Protect the Linchpin of the Natural Gas Boom," published in Albany Law Review, authored by Sorell E. Negro (2013/2014)
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        • The Thirst of Fracking: Regulating to Protect the Linchpin of the Natural Gas Boom

        "The Thirst of Fracking: Regulating to Protect the Linchpin of the Natural Gas Boom," published in Albany Law Review, authored by Sorell E. Negro (2013/2014)

        This article discusses developments and emerging issues in the regulation of natural gas activities with regard to water resources. It was published as part of the 2013-2014 Albany Law Review's symposium "Fractured Communities: Hydraulic Fracturing and the Law in New York State."

      • View article

      "Don't Shoot from the Hip: Plan and Regulate Shooting Ranges," published in Zoning Practice, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Erica S. Rocha, law student at Quinnipiac University School of Law (December 2013)

      Discretionary Land Use Controls: Avoiding Invitations to Abuse of Discretion, an update of the book, now in its 16th edition (2013)

      "The 2013 ZiPLeRs: The Nineteenth Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (12/2013)

      "Land Use Regulation by Contract: How to Draft, Negotiate, and Defend Development Agreements," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a national teleconference sponsored by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/9/2013)
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        • Land Use Regulation by Contract: How to Draft, Negotiate, and Defend Development Agreements

        "Land Use Regulation by Contract: How to Draft, Negotiate, and Defend Development Agreements," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, a national teleconference sponsored by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (12/9/2013)

        Co-moderated with Professor Daniel R. Mandelker of the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis and Professor David Owens of the University of North Carolina School of Government.

         


      "The Impact of Koontz: What Will This Supreme Court Decision Mean for Affordable Housing and Community Development?" co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam and Professor John Echeverria of Vermont Law School, presented at the New England Housing Network Annual Conference in Framingham, Massachusetts (12/6/2013)

      "Challenging the Right to Take: Case Law and Recent Issues," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the conference Eminent Domain from Start to Finish in Cromwell, Connecticut; sponsored by the National Business Institute (12/5/2013)

      "Ethics of Condemnation," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, presented at the conference Eminent Domain from Start to Finish in Cromwell, Connecticut; sponsored by the National Business Institute (12/5/2013)

      "Designing for Coastal Storms," presented by Gregory S. Sampson, presented at ArchitectureBoston Expo (11/22/2013)

      "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers," presented by Evan J. Seeman, co-presenter for APA ethics webinar (11/22/2013)

      "The Regulation of Fracking," presented by Sorell E. Negro, Guest Lecturer at Quinnipiac Law School for Professor Jeffrey Meyer's Environmental Law Class (10/31/2013)

      "2013 Public Acts Amending Coastal Permitting and Management Statutes in Connecticut" authored by John P. Casey (10/17/2013)

      "Fractured Communities: Hydraulic Fracturing and the Law in New York State," at Albany Law Review symposium panel, presented by Sorell E. Negro (9/24/2013)

      "Ethical Rules and Considerations for Planners, Plan Commissioners, and Lawyers," presented by Sorell E. Negro, co-presenter for APA ethics webinar (9/4/2013)

      "Looking Below the Surface: Planning for Impacts on People, Places, and Property from Natural Gas Development," published in Probate & Property, authored by Sorell E. Negro, a publication of the American Bar Association (July/August 2013)

      "Managing Our Coastal Resources Post-Irene and Sandy: New Laws, Regulations, and Guidelines," at Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association's annual "Hot Topics in Land Use Law and Practice" program, presented by John P. Casey (6/21/2013)

      "New Takings Issues: Regulating Shale Development and Coastal Adaptation to Climate Change," presented by Sorell E. Negro, presented as part of CLE panel discussion on hot topics in land use and environmental law at the ABA's Young Lawyers Division Spring Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota (5/17/2013)

      "Federal Flood Plain Regulation," at Lorman Education Services audio conference, co-presented by John P. Casey and Ernest Abbott & Molly Lawrence (4/26/2013)

      "Land Banking 101: A National Perspective," presented by Sorell E. Negro, Organizer and panel Moderator for national CLE teleconference for the ABA's Real Property Trust and Estate Law Section (3/27/2013)

      "Beyond the Fracking Wars," at a CLE panel at the 2013 ABA Midyear Meeting in Dallas, Texas, presented by Sorell E. Negro (2/7/2013)

      "Protecting Stream Flows: Water Management Strategies from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission," authored by Sorell E. Negro, published in the Water Resources Committee Newsletter of the ABA's Section of the Environment, Energy, and Resources (2/2013)

      "Man Camps, Boomtowns, and the Boom-and-Bust Cycle: Learning from Rifle, Colorado, and Williams County, North Dakota," published in Beyond the Fracking Wars, authored by Sorell E. Negro, a publication of the American Bar Association (2013)

      "Sustainable Retail Development: The Balancing Act Between 'Good Practice' and Regulatory Compliance," at 2012 International Council of Shopping Centers RetailGreen Conference, presented by Brian W. Blaesser (11/28/2012)

      "Check out our new blog RLUIPA Defense" (11/16/2012)

      "Coastal Permitting in CT Following Hurricane Sandy" authored by John P. Casey (11/02/2012)

      "Planning for Shale Development: Booms, Busts, and Beyond," presented by Sorell E. Negro, organized and moderated this national webinar for the American Planning Association (10/26/2012)

      "Marcellus Shale Development: Planning for Environmental, Community, and Economic Impacts," presented by Sorell E. Negro, moderated this session at the American Planning Association's New York Metro Chapter Annual Meeting in New York City (10/19/2012)

      "What We Must Never Forget: The Social Equity Obligations of Planners and Planning Officials," at Michigan Association of Planning Annual Conference, presented by Dwight H. Merriam (10/18/2012)

      "Planning Mistakes: Assessing, Learning, and Adapting," at American Planning Association National Teleconference, presented by Dwight H. Merriam (10/10/2012)

      "Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act," at Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials Annual Seminar, presented by Evan J. Seeman (10/3/2012)

      "Land Banking: An Opportunity for Southern New England?" presented by Sorell E. Negro, co-moderated this panel with Evan Seeman, which was presented at the Southern New England American Planning Association Conference (9/21/2012)

      "Land Banking: An Opportunity for Southern New England?" at Southern New England American Planning Association Conference: Planning at the Crossroads, presented by Evan J. Seeman, Moderator (9/21/2012)

      "Supreme Court Land Use: Property Search, Backyard Burial Make National News," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (9/17/2012)

      "Land Use Law: What You Don’t Know WILL Hurt You – The Most Important Land Use Law Developments of the Last Year," at Southern New England American Planning Association Conference: Planning at the Crossroads, presented by Dwight H. Merriam, Panelist (9/2012)

      "You Can Take It to the Bank: The Role of Land Banking in Dealing with Distressed Properties," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Sorell E. Negro (9/2012)

      "Land Banking: An Opportunity for Southern New England?" at Southern New England American Planning Association Conference: Planning at the Crossroads, presented by Timothy D. Bates, Panelist (9/2012)

      "American Planning Association's Annual Land Use Law Teleconference," presented by Dwight H. Merriam (6/27/2012)

      "2012 Public Acts Affecting Coastal Properties in Connecticut" (06/01/2012)

      "Federal Flood Plain Regulation," at Lorman Education Services audio conference, co-presented by John P. Casey and Ernest Abbott & Molly Lawrence (5/30/2012)

      "Land Banking: A Sharper Tool in the Distressed Property Toolkit," published in The Abstract, co-authored by Sorell E. Negro and Dwight H. Merriam (Spring 2012)

      "Distinguishing Water Law from Land Use to Protect Water Quality and Navigate Rapanos," published in Environmental Claims Journal, authored by Sorell E. Negro (5/21/2012)

      "The View from the Shore - Regulation as Far as the Eye Can See," published in New England Real Estate Journal, authored by John P. Casey (5/18/2012)

      "Ganja in the Land of Steady Habits," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (4/9/2012)

      "Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act Claims: Strategies for Local Governments to Avoid or Defend RLUIPA Actions," co-presented by Dwight H. Merriam, Hiram B. Carey III, Karla L. Chaffee, Evan J. Seeman and John R. Bauer, William J. Kelleher III, webinar, presented by Strafford Publications (3/13/2012)

      "A New Tool for Vacant Properties: Land-Banking," published in Municipal Lawyer, authored by Sorell E. Negro (March/April 2012)

      "When a Rooster Moves in Next Door," published in The Commissioner, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (Spring 2012)

      "U.S. Supreme Court Relieves Power Companies in Unanimous Opinion" (02/24/2012)

      "Proposed Legislation Affecting Coastal Properties in Connecticut" authored by John P. Casey (02/17/2012)

      "Navigating Summary Judgment: Takings Lessons – PPL Montana LLC v. State of Montana, U.S. Supreme Court, Docket No. 10-218," at Yale Law School, presented by Brian R. Smith (1/25/2012)

      "Built Seawalls: A Protected Investment or Subordinate to the Public Trust?" authored by Sorell E. Negro, published in the Ocean and Coastal Law Journal of the University of Maine School of Law (2012)

      "Hot Topics in Coastal Permitting," at Connecticut Marine Trades Association Annual Marine Trades Exposition, presented by John P. Casey (10/11/11)

      "The Ever-Changing Landscape of Land-Use Law," published in The Commissioner, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (Fall 2011)

      "Coastal Permitting in Connecticut Following Hurricane Irene" authored by John P. Casey (09/01/2011)

      "Reissuance of the Army Corps of Engineers’ Programmatic General Permit for Connecticut" authored by John P. Casey (08/18/2011)

      "Green Leasing for Retail: Landlord and Tenant Perspectives: Parts 1 and 2," published in Retail Law Strategist, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Gregory S. Sampson (Summer 2011)
      • » more info

        • Green Leasing for Retail: Landlord and Tenant Perspectives: Parts 1 and 2

        "Green Leasing for Retail: Landlord and Tenant Perspectives: Parts 1 and 2," published in Retail Law Strategist, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Gregory S. Sampson (Summer 2011)

        The article provides a practitioner's guide to negotiating and drafting "green leases" in commercial property transactions from the separate perspectives of the landlord and the tenant. It explains the problem of the "split incentive" in the typical commercial lease and how to "green" the lease through the provisions that incorporate sustainability goals and requirements.

      • View article

      "Government and Industry Sustainability Initiatives Forum," at International Council of Shopping Centers RECon Conference, presented by Brian W. Blaesser (5/2011)

      "RLUIPA Is No Trump Card: How to Stop Claims and Successfully Defend Against Them," at RLUIPA/Free Exercise and Land Use Controls: The Clash Comes to NH workshop of the New Hampshire Municipal Lawyers Association in Concord, New Hampshire, presented by Dwight H. Merriam (2/23/2011)

      "Coastal Development and Regulatory Realities," at American Planning Association webinar, presented by John P. Casey (2/18/2011)

      "How to Avoid Getting Stuck in the Mud," at Federal & State Regulations for Wetlands & Waterways program for the Association of Massachusetts Wetland Scientists, presented by Gregory S. Sampson (2/17/2011)

      "Updating Land Use and Zoning Ordinances," at a national Webinar for Lorman Education Services, presented by Dwight H. Merriam (2/2011)

      "2009 Zoning and Planning Law Report Awards," at Colorado Bar Association's National Continuing Education Conference, presented by Dwight H. Merriam (1/2011)

      "Public Hearing on Energy Efficiency Amendments to CT Building Code" (12/01/2010)

      "A Potpourri of Hot Topics: A Spicy Mix of Land Use Issues," presented at Connecticut Bar Association seminar on the latest topics in land use law, co-presented by John P. Casey and Timothy D. Bates (10/22/2010)

      "Affordable Housing Law (Chapter 40B)," at Boston Bar Association Real Estate Section, presented by Brian W. Blaesser (9/2010)

      "Public Act 10-106: an Act Concerning Long Island Sound and Coastal Permitting" authored by John P. Casey (06/25/2010)

      "Annual Review of Land Use Case Law," at Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, co-presented by John P. Casey and Michele Maresca (6/21/2010)
      • » more info

        • Annual Review of Land Use Case Law

        "Annual Review of Land Use Case Law," at Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, co-presented by John P. Casey and Michele Maresca (6/21/2010)
        Landlaw attorneys John P. Casey and Michele L. Maresca presented an annual review of land use case law to the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. The presentation discussed significant Connecticut Appellate and Supreme Court decisions in land use law from the past year, including cases on site plan review under the Coastal Management Act, public notice requirements for zoning applications, inland wetlands regulation, the proximity of a residential property to a gun club as a violation of due process, the standing of an opposition group to challenge a zoning decision, and a town's exercise of municipal powers in lieu of relief under zoning statutes.

      "Accommodating Zoning: Uses and Limits of the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act," at American Bar Association's State and Local Government Section Spring Meeting, presented by Michele L. Maresca (4/30/2010)

      "Introducing Mixed-Use Zones to Traditional Zoning Communities," at New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors, 51st Annual Surveyors Conference & Exhibition, Turning Stone Resort, Verona, New York, presented by Timothy D. Bates (1/15/2010)
      • » more info

        • Introducing Mixed-Use Zones to Traditional Zoning Communities

        "Introducing Mixed-Use Zones to Traditional Zoning Communities," at New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors, 51st Annual Surveyors Conference & Exhibition, Turning Stone Resort, Verona, New York, presented by Timothy D. Bates (1/15/2010)
        A presentation reviewing zoning for mixed uses, particularly in form-based codes, and how form-based zoning can be introduced to traditional zoning communities through design districts, overlay zones, and floating zones. The presentation included photo tours of the Kentlands in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and Blue Back Square in West Hartford, Connecticut.

      "Personal Wireless Service Facilities — A Sample Ordinance," authored by Kenneth C. Baldwin (2009)
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        • Personal Wireless Service Facilities — A Sample Ordinance

        "Personal Wireless Service Facilities — A Sample Ordinance," authored by Kenneth C. Baldwin (2009)

        Trends in land use law from A to Z.


      "Jetties, Docks, Seawalls, Littoral Rights, Waterfront Homes, Spartina, and More," at Robinson & Cole's Coastal Considerations and Regulatory Reality Breakfast Seminar (7/14/2009)

      "Creating Win-Win Situations," published in Inside the Minds/Municipal Building and Zoning Code Enforcement Best Practices, authored by Timothy D. Bates (February 2009)
      • » more info

        • Creating Win-Win Situations

        "Creating Win-Win Situations," published in Inside the Minds/Municipal Building and Zoning Code Enforcement Best Practices, authored by Timothy D. Bates (February 2009)
        The chapter explores practical ways to resolve zoning and wetlands enforcement issues and how municipalities and property owners can cost-effectively reach legally-appropriate outcomes.

      "New LEED-ND System Released for Public Comment until January 5, 2009" (01/21/2009)

      "Follow-up to: Proposed Green Building Amendments to the Connecticut State Building Code" (01/21/2009)

      "Mixed-Use and Form-Based Zoning," at South Central Regional Council of Governments, co-presented by Timothy D. Bates and Robert J. Sitkowski, Esq. (2009)

      "Planning Commissions," at Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2009)

      "Land Sales: Docks, Seawalls, and Jetties: Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them," at luncheon seminar to a group of real estate brokers in southeast Connecticut, co-presented by John P. Casey and Keith Neilson, P.E. (11/13/2008)
      • » more info

        • Land Sales: Docks, Seawalls, and Jetties: Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

        "Land Sales: Docks, Seawalls, and Jetties: Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them," at luncheon seminar to a group of real estate brokers in southeast Connecticut, co-presented by John P. Casey and Keith Neilson, P.E. (11/13/2008)
        R&C LandLaw Attorney John Casey, along with engineer Keith Neilson of Docko, Inc. gave a presentation to a group of 25 real estate brokers about coastal permitting and the problems that property owners face when coastal structures do not have the proper authorizations. Topics included an overview of federal, state, and local dock permitting requirements, the due diligence process for evaluating whether a dock has the necessary permits prior to a sale, the process for transferring permits to a new owner, the potential impact of not having the necessary permits, the possible implications of purchasing property with an unpermitted dock, and the procedure for bringing docks into compliance with permitting requirements.

      "Proposed Green Building Amendments to the Connecticut State Building Code" (10/24/2008)

      "Wetlands Permitting Caselaw Update," at Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, presented by John P. Casey (6/18/2008)
      • » more info

        • Wetlands Permitting Caselaw Update

        "Wetlands Permitting Caselaw Update," at Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, presented by John P. Casey (6/18/2008)
        R&C LandLaw Attorney John Casey gave a presentation to the members of the Planning and Zoning Section of the Connecticut Bar Association on recent caselaw decisions on the area of wetlands permitting. Mr. Casey's talk focused on recent decisions of the Connecticut Appellate and Supreme Courts that explained or clarified the standards that should be applied by local wetlands agencies when evaluating a permit application to conduct regulated wetland activities.

      "Kelo-Provoked Changes to the Rules of Eminent Domain," published in Retail Law Strategist, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Amanda S. Eckhoff (June 2008)

      Redevelopment: Planning, Law, and Project Implementation, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, coedited with Thomas P. Cody, published by the American Bar Association, Section of State and Local Government Law (6/2008)

      "The Promise of New Urbanism," at Ariston Club, New London, Connecticut, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2008)

      "Promoting Mixed-Used Zones in Euclidean Zoning Communities," published in Revitalization E-Digest, authored by Timothy D. Bates (January 2008)
      • » more info

        • Promoting Mixed-Used Zones in Euclidean Zoning Communities

        "Promoting Mixed-Used Zones in Euclidean Zoning Communities," published in Revitalization E-Digest, authored by Timothy D. Bates (January 2008)
        Using a case study in Groton, Connecticut, the article explores how to introduce the concept of mixed-use zoning, the ways in which mixed uses can be introduced into contemporary zoning regulations, and some of the compromises that must be considered.

      "Introducing Mixed-Use Zones to Traditional Zoning Communities," at Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2008)

      Zoning Freezes, published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, Chapter 7, by Brian W. Blaesser (2008)

      "Governor Patrick Signs Legislation to Exempt Landlocked Tidelands from Chapter 91 Licensing," published in New England Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism, co-authored by Matthew J. Lawlor and Karl P. Baker (Winter 2007)

      "Helping Communities Make Their Regulations Work for Mixed Use," published in Retail Law Strategist, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Matthew J. Lawlor, (Parts 1 & 2) (12/2007 and 1/2008)

      "Litigating The Eminent Domain Case In Connecticut," at Second Annual Property Rights Seminar: Update on Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings, presented by Dwight H. Merriam, Brian R. Smith, David E. Ross, Robert J. Sitkowski (10/10/2007)
      • » more info

        • Litigating The Eminent Domain Case In Connecticut

        "Litigating The Eminent Domain Case In Connecticut," at Second Annual Property Rights Seminar: Update on Eminent Domain and Regulatory Takings, presented by Dwight H. Merriam, Brian R. Smith, David E. Ross, Robert J. Sitkowski (10/10/2007)
        This comprehensive, all-day program addressed recent developments in regulatory and eminent domain takings. Sessions included the new Office of Property Rights Ombudsman, legislation, and court rulings. Mr. Babbitt's presentation focused on the substantive and procedural issues that must be addressed in litigating an eminent domain action in Connecticut.

      "Water Boundaries," at National Business Institute, presented by Timothy D. Bates, part of "Boundary Disputes: Resolving Client Conflicts" (9/17/2007)

      "Coastal Land Use Issues in Connecticut," at Lorman Education Services Seminar, co-presented by John P. Casey and John Anderson (7/10/2007)
      • » more info

        • Coastal Land Use Issues in Connecticut

        "Coastal Land Use Issues in Connecticut," at Lorman Education Services Seminar, co-presented by John P. Casey and John Anderson (7/10/2007)
        R&C LandLaw Attorney John Casey moderated and presented at a first-of-its-kind seminar on Coastal Land Use Issues in Connecticut. LandLaw Analyst John Anderson was one of the key speakers at the seminar, giving talks on Connecticut's Tidal Wetlands Act and the Army Corps of Engineers permitting program. John and John were responsible for setting the agenda and inviting the other speakers, who included state and local regulators, engineers, and other attorneys. Mr. Casey gave presentations on Connecticut's statutory scheme that regulates development in coastal waters, as well as the law of regulatory takings of private property and ethical considerations when representing clients before regulatory agencies.

      "Real Estate Closings A to Z — Preliminary Work," at National Business Institute, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2007)

      "Retail Space for Lease? Chain Stores Need Not Apply," published in Retail Law Strategist, co-authored by Brian W. Blaesser and Timothy C. Twardowski, (Parts 1 & 2) (12/2006 & 1/2007)

      "Environmental eNews - October 10, 2006" (10/23/2006)

      "Chapter 205 of the Acts of 2006 - The Expedited and Streamlined Permitting Law," at roundtable discussion with David Sterrett, Boston Bar Association's Land Use Development Committee, presented by Matthew J. Lawlor (10/3/2006)
      • » more info

        • Chapter 205 of the Acts of 2006 - The Expedited and Streamlined Permitting Law

        "Chapter 205 of the Acts of 2006 - The Expedited and Streamlined Permitting Law," at roundtable discussion with David Sterrett, Boston Bar Association's Land Use Development Committee, presented by Matthew J. Lawlor (10/3/2006)
        Assistant Corporation Counsel, City of Boston, at the monthly meeting of the Boston Bar Association's Land Use and Development Committee.

      "Legal Issues in Land Development/Recent Developments in the Law," authored by Matthew J. Lawlor, comments offered to the Boston Society of Civil Engineers, focusing on eminent domain and regulatory takings, Boston, Massachusetts (5/31/2006)

      "Regulation of Nonconforming Uses," at American Planning Association's 2006 National Conference, San Antonio, Texas, presented by Timothy D. Bates, chaired panel (Spring 2006)

      "Right to Farm Act: When Can Barring Nuisance Actions Constitute an Unconstitutional Taking?" at American Planning Association's 2006 National Conference, San Antonio, Texas; also presented at Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute, Denver, Colorado (2007), presented by Timothy D. Bates, panelist (Spring 2006)

      "The Truth about Property Rights," at American Planning Association's 2006 National Conference, San Antonio, Texas, Panel Moderator, presented by Carla M. Moynihan (Spring 2006)

      "Zoning Appeals," at MCLE 8th Annual Real Estate Law Conference, presented by Michael S. Giaimo (3/2006)

      "Due Process in Land Use Proceedings," at Town of Stonington land use boards and commissions, co-presented by John P. Casey and Robert Sitkowski (1/26/2006)
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        • Due Process in Land Use Proceedings

        "Due Process in Land Use Proceedings," at Town of Stonington land use boards and commissions, co-presented by John P. Casey and Robert Sitkowski (1/26/2006)
        R&C LandLaw Attorney John Casey and Robert Sitkowski gave a presentation to members of the Town of Stonington land use boards and commissions on the topic of due process and fundamental fairness in land use proceedings. Mr. Casey and Mr. Sitkowski reviewed the basic principles that apply in local proceedings as well as discussed specific situations that often arise during municipal proceedings.

      "Steering Your Way Through Local Zoning Requirements," published in MCLE Massachusetts Basic Practice Manual, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2006 supp.)
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        • Steering Your Way Through Local Zoning Requirements

        "Steering Your Way Through Local Zoning Requirements," published in MCLE Massachusetts Basic Practice Manual, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2006 supp.)
        Author of article on zoning in book containing overview of Massachusetts legal practice.

      "Retail Property Values and Land Use Regulation," published in Commercial Leasing Law & Strategy, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol. 18, No. 6 (11/2005)

      "Eminent Domain for Private Gain? The Kelo v. City of New London Decision and Aftermath," published in American Planning Association Planning & Environmental Law, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, vol. 57, no. 9 (9/2005)

      "Historical Development of Massachusetts Zoning Law," published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2005 supp.)
      • » more info

        • Historical Development of Massachusetts Zoning Law

        "Historical Development of Massachusetts Zoning Law," published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2005 supp.)
        Update to chapter that traces history of zoning law in Massachusetts.

      "Special Permits," published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, co-authored by Michael S. Giaimo and Christopher Foster (2005 supp.)

      "Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant," at MCLE Zoning Basics Seminar, presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2005)
      • » more info

        • Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant

        "Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant," at MCLE Zoning Basics Seminar, presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2005)
        Spoke on the topics of site plan review and constructive grant of zoning permits under Massachusetts law.

      "Zoning Freezes," published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, co-authored by Michael S. Giaimo and Brian Blaesser (2005 supp.)
      • » more info

        • Zoning Freezes

        "Zoning Freezes," published in MCLE Massachusetts Zoning Manual, co-authored by Michael S. Giaimo and Brian Blaesser (2005 supp.)
        Update to chapter addressing vested rights under Massachusetts zoning and subdivision law.

      "Chapter 40R: A New Mechanism for Encouraging Housing Construction," published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, co-authored by Matthew J. Lawlor and Michael S. Giaimo (12/2004)

      "Regulating McMansions, Starter Palaces & Homes on Steroids," published in American Law Institute-ABA, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Robert I. McMurry, 20th Annual Land Use Institute, Boston, MA (8/2004)

      "An Addendum on Grassroots Lobbying," published in American Law Institute-ABA, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Robert I. McMurry, 20th Annual Land Use Institute, Boston, MA (8/2004)

      "Update on the First Amendment and Adult Uses," published in American Law Institute-ABA, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Benjamin H. Dowling, 20th Annual Land Use Institute, Boston, MA (8/2004)

      "The Operational Challenge of Effective Biosecurity Programs," at Aquaculture 2004, Honolulu, Hawaii, co-presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. and John R. MacMillan, Ph.D., President, National Aquaculture Association (3/2004)
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        • The Operational Challenge of Effective Biosecurity Programs

        "The Operational Challenge of Effective Biosecurity Programs," at Aquaculture 2004, Honolulu, Hawaii, co-presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. and John R. MacMillan, Ph.D., President, National Aquaculture Association (3/2004)
        This presentation reviews the objectives of biosecurity plans for commercial aquaculture facilities, the drivers that influence such plans and the challenges presented by different types of production facilities. Also considered are the limitations that arise from proscriptive regulatory standards for biosecurity plans versus stated objectives that leave adaptability and flexibility available in design of facility plans.
      • View article

      "U.S. Regulation of Offshore Aquaculture: Can We Compete in a Global Market?" at Aquaculture 2004: The International Triennial Meeting of the National Aquaculture Association, the World Aquaculture Association, and the American Fisheries Society, Honolulu, Hawaii, presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. (3/2004)
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        • U.S. Regulation of Offshore Aquaculture: Can We Compete in a Global Market?

        "U.S. Regulation of Offshore Aquaculture: Can We Compete in a Global Market?" at Aquaculture 2004: The International Triennial Meeting of the National Aquaculture Association, the World Aquaculture Association, and the American Fisheries Society, Honolulu, Hawaii, presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. (3/2004)
        This presentation discusses the elements to address in development of federal legislation to support offshore aquaculture beyond state waters. The production of food fish is identified as the primary purpose of such efforts, and the need to coordinate various regulatory programs reviewed.
      • View article

      "The Aquaculture Facility Permit Process and Regulatory Compliance Requirements: How to Explain Them to Your Banker," at Aquaculture 2004, Honolulu, Hawaii, presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. (3/2004)
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        • The Aquaculture Facility Permit Process and Regulatory Compliance Requirements: How to Explain Them to Your Banker

        "The Aquaculture Facility Permit Process and Regulatory Compliance Requirements: How to Explain Them to Your Banker," at Aquaculture 2004, Honolulu, Hawaii, presented by W. Richard Smith Jr. (3/2004)
        This presentation reviews the interests of lenders in understanding environmental permit requirments and other regulatory impacts on operations and the loan review and approval process. Issues related to the borrower's repayment of debt, the value of security and potential liability are discussed. Also reviewed are measures to improve lender confidence in the ability of borrower aquaculturists to meet operating requirements and their obligations to lenders.

      "e-News" (01/31/2004)

      "Impact Fee Methodology and Legal Issues," published in NAHB Lands Roundtable, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (2004)

      "Zoning Freezes, Subdivision Controls, and Site Plan Review," at CLE International Land Use and Development Law (Boston, MA), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (1/2004)
      • » more info

        • Zoning Freezes, Subdivision Controls, and Site Plan Review

        "Zoning Freezes, Subdivision Controls, and Site Plan Review," at CLE International Land Use and Development Law (Boston, MA), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (1/2004)
        Overview of Massachusetts subdivision control law and zoning topics

      "Preserving Community Character in the Face of 'Teardowns' and 'McMansions' — Zoning Approaches," at International Municipal Attorneys Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2004)

      "e-News" (12/31/2003)

      "The Inclusionary Housing Debate: Who Really Pays for Affordable Housing?" published in On Common Ground, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (Winter 2003)

      "Recent Developments in Federal Telecommunications Act Law," at Center for American and International Law Annual Program on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (Dallas Tx), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (12/2003)
      • » more info

        • Recent Developments in Federal Telecommunications Act Law

        "Recent Developments in Federal Telecommunications Act Law," at Center for American and International Law Annual Program on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (Dallas Tx), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (12/2003)
        Overview of legal developments under the Federal Telecommunications Act.

      "More on RLUIPA," at Center for American and International Law Annual Program on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (Dallas, TX), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (12/2003)
      • » more info

        • More on RLUIPA

        "More on RLUIPA," at Center for American and International Law Annual Program on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (Dallas, TX), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (12/2003)
        Provided rebuttal and supplemental comments to presentation by Professor Daniel Mandelker on religious land use law.

      "Homeland Security Begins at Home: Local Planning and Regulatory Review to Improve Security," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Rufus C. Young, Jr., vol. 55, no. 11 (11/2003)

      "Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant," at Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, presented by Michael S. Giaimo (11/2003)
      • » more info

        • Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant

        "Site Plan Review and Constructive Grant," at Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, presented by Michael S. Giaimo (11/2003)
        Overview of Massachusetts law on site plan review and constructive grant of special permits and variances

      "Challenging Improper Land Use Decision Making under the Equal Protection Clause," at Georgetown Center for Environmental Law Litigating Regulatory Takings Symposium (New York City), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (10/30/2003)
      • » more info

        • Challenging Improper Land Use Decision Making under the Equal Protection Clause

        "Challenging Improper Land Use Decision Making under the Equal Protection Clause," at Georgetown Center for Environmental Law Litigating Regulatory Takings Symposium (New York City), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (10/30/2003)
        Provided an overview of federal law concerning "class of one" equal protection claims in the land-use context as part of a panel discussing constitutional theories for challenging land use decisions.

      "e-News" (10/14/2003)

      "Religious Land Use Law," at Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute Annual Conference (Denver, CO), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (10/2003)
      • » more info

        • Religious Land Use Law

        "Religious Land Use Law," at Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute Annual Conference (Denver, CO), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (10/2003)
        Overview of religious land use law, including recent developments under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act

      "e-News" (09/30/2003)

      "e-News" (09/02/2003)

      "How to Kill a Development Project in Ten Easy Steps," published in American Law Institute-ABA, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Robert I. McMurry, 19th Annual Land Use Institute, Santa Fe, NM (8/2003)

      "The Problems in Keeping Affordable Housing Affordable," published in American Law Institute-ABA, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, 19th Annual Land Use Institute, Santa Fe, NM (8/2003)

      "Homeland Security Issues: A Land Use Checklist," published in American Law Institute-ABA, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Rufus C. Young, Jr., and Elizabeth A. Castellani, 19th Annual Land Use Institute, Santa Fe, NM (8/2003)

      "e-News" (08/01/2003)

      "e-News" (06/24/2003)

      "Connecticut's Nitrogen TMDL and Credit Exchange Program," at Association of Metropolitan Sewer Agencies, (3/2003) presented at New York City Bar Association and Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Robert S. Melvin (6/2003)

      "e-News" (05/31/2003)

      "Life After Bishops Forest," at Massachusetts Conveyancers Association Spring Seminar, co-presented by Lawrence P. Heffernan and V. Douglas Errico, Esq., Robert J. Galvin, Esq., and Samuel B. Moskowitz, Esq. (5/2003)

      "e-News" (04/30/2003)

      "Church v. State," published in Planning, co-authored by Michael S. Giaimo and Dwight Merriam (4/2003)
      • » more info

        • Church v. State

        "Church v. State," published in Planning, co-authored by Michael S. Giaimo and Dwight Merriam (4/2003)
        Summarizes and describes legal developments under the Religious Land Use and Institutional Persons Act, including advice to municipalities

      "e-News" (03/28/2003)

      "What Every Association Executive Should Know About Land Use," at National Association of Realtors Executive Conference (Chicago, IL), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (3/2003)
      • » more info

        • What Every Association Executive Should Know About Land Use

        "What Every Association Executive Should Know About Land Use," at National Association of Realtors Executive Conference (Chicago, IL), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (3/2003)
        Overview of "smart growth" concepts, techniques and trends.

      "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law, A Short Course on Land Use Law (Albany, NY), co-presented by Michael S. Giaimo and Professor Daniel Mandelker (3/2003)
      • » more info

        • Religious Land Use

        "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law, A Short Course on Land Use Law (Albany, NY), co-presented by Michael S. Giaimo and Professor Daniel Mandelker (3/2003)
        Overview of case law and issues under the Federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act

      "e-News" (02/28/2003)

      "Ill Will and Class of One: Equal Protection Claims after the Olech Decision," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2003)
      • » more info

        • Ill Will and Class of One: Equal Protection Claims after the Olech Decision

        "Ill Will and Class of One: Equal Protection Claims after the Olech Decision," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2003)
        This article discusses the state of the law with respect to equal protection claims for the denial of development permits. It specifically addresses the confused case law in the wake of the Supreme Court's Village of Willowbrook v. Olech decision, with respect to the need to prove "ill will" as part of such a claim.

      "e-News" (01/31/2003)

      "e-News" (12/28/2002)

      "e-News" (11/14/2002)

      "Book Review: Introduction to Zoning, 2d Edition," published in Journal of the American Planning Association (JAPA), authored by Michael S. Giaimo (Autumn 2002)

      "Religious Land Use," at National Association of Towns and Townships Annual Meeting (Washington, D.C.), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (9/2002)
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        • Religious Land Use

        "Religious Land Use," at National Association of Towns and Townships Annual Meeting (Washington, D.C.), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (9/2002)
        Overview of religious land use law including recent developments under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act

      "Connecting the Dots to a Successful Brownfields Project: A Case Study," at International Economic Development Council Brownfields Workshop, presented by James P. Ray (8/7/02)
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        • Connecting the Dots to a Successful Brownfields Project: A Case Study

        "Connecting the Dots to a Successful Brownfields Project: A Case Study," at International Economic Development Council Brownfields Workshop, presented by James P. Ray (8/7/02)
        This presentation focused on the steps to consider when undertaking a brownfields project. An interactive case study was presented allowing the audience members to play various roles in the deliberations surrounding the possible conversion of a waterfront bulk fuel oil storage terminal to an upscale apartment complex.

      "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law Short Course on Land Use Law (New York City), co-presented by Michael S. Giaimo and Dwight Merriam (6/2002)
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        • Religious Land Use

        "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law Short Course on Land Use Law (New York City), co-presented by Michael S. Giaimo and Dwight Merriam (6/2002)
        Overview of recent developments in religious land use law including the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act

      "The Relevant Parcel and Partial Takings," at Center for American and International Law Annual Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2002)
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        • The Relevant Parcel and Partial Takings

        "The Relevant Parcel and Partial Takings," at Center for American and International Law Annual Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2002)
        Overview of case law on partial takings.

      "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law (CAIL) Annual Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2002)
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        • Religious Land Use

        "Religious Land Use," at Center for American and International Law (CAIL) Annual Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (2/2002)
        Overview of recent developments in religious land use law including the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA).

      "Inclusionary Zoning: There’s a Better Way," published in Inclusionary Zoning: Lessons Learned in Massachusetts, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, National Housing Conference Affordable Housing Policy Review: Vol. 2, Issue 1 (1/2002)

      "Wetlands and Watercourses as a Constraint for Development," at Environmental Issues in Real Estate Transactions, Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2002)

      Smart Growth: Legal Assumptions and Market Realities, published in Smart Growth: Form and Consequences, Chapter 8, by Brian W. Blaesser, (Lincoln Institute of Land Policy) (2002)

      "Land Use and Zoning Law: Recent Developments in the Second Circuit 1999-2000," published in Quinnipiac Law Review, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Gregory W. McCracken, vol. 21, no. 1 (Summer 2001)

      "Preston v. Zoning Board of Appeals of Hull and the Zoning Doctrine of Merger: A Reminder from the Appeals Court," published in The Conveyancer, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (Summer 2001)
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        • Preston v. Zoning Board of Appeals of Hull and the Zoning Doctrine of Merger: A Reminder from the Appeals Court

        "Preston v. Zoning Board of Appeals of Hull and the Zoning Doctrine of Merger: A Reminder from the Appeals Court," published in The Conveyancer, authored by Michael S. Giaimo (Summer 2001)
        Discusses the zoning doctrine of lot merger in Massachusetts and its implications for real estate development, as affected by a recent Massachusetts appellate decision.

      "Substantial Relationship and the Supreme Court’s Del Monte Dunes Decision," published in Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute Publications Catalogue, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and D. Callies and J. Laitos, (video) (6/2001)

      "Land Use Controls," at a Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) Annual Meeting, presented by Richard M. Fil (6/2001)
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        • Land Use Controls

        "Land Use Controls," at a Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) Annual Meeting, presented by Richard M. Fil (6/2001)

        Description of land use controls with a focus on environmental land use restrictions (ELURs) in Connecticut. The presentation included planning strategies to determine whether an ELUR would be enforceable and appropriate for the current and future uses of the property.


      "Commentary," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, vol. 53, no. 4 (4/2001)

      "Overcoming Opposition in Commercial Real Estate Development," published in Commercial Real Estate, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, a supplement to Connecticut Law Tribune (4/2001)

      "Planning Commissions," at CBA, presented by Timothy D. Bates (3/3/2001)
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        • Planning Commissions

        "Planning Commissions," at CBA, presented by Timothy D. Bates (3/3/2001)
        An overview of the roles and responsibilities of planning commissions under Connecticut law.

      "The 2000 ZiPLeRs: The Sixth Annual Zoning and Planning Law Report Land Use Decision Awards," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, vol. 24, no. 2 (2/2001)

      "Institutional Controls," at an Environmental Bankers Association event, presented by Richard M. Fil (1/2001)
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        • Institutional Controls

        "Institutional Controls," at an Environmental Bankers Association event, presented by Richard M. Fil (1/2001)

        Explanation and use of institutional controls to cost-effectively manage remediation projects. Examples include land use restrictions, use and activity limitations, deed notices, and zoning restrictions.

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      "Overcoming Opposition in Commercial Real Estate Development," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (2001)

      "The Ultimate in Federal Land Use Planning: The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Program," published in Trends in Land Use Law from A to Z, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, American Bar Association (2001)

      Brownfields Law and Practice Connecticut chapter and updated biannually, authored by Robert S. Melvin (2001)
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        • Brownfields Law and Practice Connecticut chapter and updated biannually

        Brownfields Law and Practice Connecticut chapter and updated biannually, authored by Robert S. Melvin (2001)
        Coauthor of the summary of Connecticut laws and programs relating to cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated brownfield properties.

      "Primer on Open Space Preservation Techniques," published in On Common Ground, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, NAR (2001)

      "Palazzolo Promotes Property Rights,," published in APA Zoning and Planning Law Report, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Bryan W. Wenter (2001)

      "The Palazzolo Palaestra," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, vol. 23, no. 11 (12/2000)

      "Connecticut Family Values," published in Connecticut Lawyer, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (12/2000)

      "Bad Faith in Section 1983 Takings Litigation," at Southwestern Legal Foundation Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (11/2000)
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        • Bad Faith in Section 1983 Takings Litigation

        "Bad Faith in Section 1983 Takings Litigation," at Southwestern Legal Foundation Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain (San Francisco), presented by Michael S. Giaimo (11/2000)
        Addressed the Supreme Court's Olech decision and the application of equal protection law to land use litigation.

      "The U.S. Supreme Court’s Decision in Del Monte Dunes: The Views of Two Opinion Leaders," published in Zoning and Planning Law Handbook, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, chap. 11 (8/2000)

      "A Primer on Title II of the ADA As It Affects Real Estate," published in Accessibility Under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Other Laws, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and R. Jeffrey Lyman, Chapter 5, American Bar Association (8/2000)

      "Good and Evil in the Village of Willowbrook: The Story of the Olech Case," published in Zoning and Planning Law Report, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, vol. 23, no. 5 (5/2000)

      "The Aftermath of Del Monte Dunes," published in 2000 Training School & Annual Meeting, authored by Dwight H. Merriam, Association of Towns of the State of New York (2/2000)

      "The Importance of Process in Smart Growth Initiatives: Ballot Box Versus Streamlining," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (2000)

      "Substantive Due Process Protections at the Outer Margins of Municipal Behavior," published in CBA Seminar Materials, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (2000)

      "Land Use and Zoning Law: Recent Developments in the Second Circuit 1998," published in Quinnipiac Law Review, co-authored by Dwight H. Merriam and Robert J. Sitkowski, vol. 18, no. 4 (1999)

      "Connecticut's Affordable Housing Act," at Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions, Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (1999)

      "Aesthetic Zoning in Connecticut," at Connecticut Bar Association (CBA), presented by Timothy D. Bates (11/20/1998)
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        • Aesthetic Zoning in Connecticut

        "Aesthetic Zoning in Connecticut," at Connecticut Bar Association (CBA), presented by Timothy D. Bates (11/20/1998)
        An examination of the basis for regulating appearance of structures and improvements under Connecticut zoning law.

      "Official Maps," published in Modernizing State Planning Statutes (The Growing Smart Working Papers), authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Planners Advisory Service (PAS) Report No. 480/481 (9/1998)

      "Growth Management: A Developer’s Perspective," published in Development, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol.: XXIX, No. 3 (1998)

      "Special Use Permits: The ‘Wait-and-See’ Weapon of Local Communities," authored by Brian W. Blaesser, 21 Zoning & Plan. L. Rep. 69 (1998)

      "Entering the Village: The Basis for Aesthetic Zoning in Connecticut," at Hot Topics in Connecticut Zoning and Planning Law, Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (1998)

      "Overregulation of Land Development," published in Urban Land, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (11/1997)

      "Affordable Housing," at Connecticut Land Use Law for Municipal Land Use Agencies, Boards, and Commissions, Connecticut Bar Association, presented by Timothy D. Bates (1997)

      "Computerized Zoning: The Future is Now," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol. 48 No.4 (4/1996)

      "Brownfields Property Disposition Strategies," published in Robinson & Cole: The Law & The Land at , authored by Thomas P. Cody (1996)

      Condemnation of Property: Practice and Strategies for Winning Just Compensation, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, (Wiley Law Publications: 1994) (1994)

      "New Federal Wetlands Policy: The Landowner's Perspective," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol. 46, No. 1 (1/1994)

      "A Tale of Two Towns: An Affordable Housing Update," published in Robinson & Cole: The Law & The Land at , authored by Thomas P. Cody (1994)

      The Abuse of Discretionary Power, published in Design Review: Challenging Urban Aesthetic Control, Chapter 4, by Brian W. Blaesser (Brenda C. Scheer & Wolfgang F. E. Preiser, eds. Chapman & Hall: New York, N.Y.) (1994)

      "Developing the Undevelopable," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, Environmental Law Supplement, authored by Timothy D. Bates (8/23/1993)
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        • Developing the Undevelopable

        "Developing the Undevelopable," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, Environmental Law Supplement, authored by Timothy D. Bates (8/23/1993)
        How to use the variance power to develop isolated and difficult properties.

      "Negotiating Entitlements," published in Urban Land, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (12/1991)

      "Planning and Zoning Appeals," at CBA, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2/18/1991)
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        • Planning and Zoning Appeals

        "Planning and Zoning Appeals," at CBA, presented by Timothy D. Bates (2/18/1991)
        Copresented with Michael J. Cacace a review of appeals procedures to the Connecticut Superior Court from state land use commissions.

      "Constitutional Constraints on Fees, Takings and Inspections," published in Proceedings of the 1990 Institute on Planning and Zoning, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1990)

      "Impact Fees: The Second Generation," published in 38 Journal of Urban and Contemporary Law, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, 401 (1990)

      "Practical Concerns of the Private Developer in Public/Private Real Estate Ventures," published in Developing Real Estate Through Public/Private Ventures, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, ABA National Institute (1990)

      The Problem in the 1980's and 1990's: The Meaning and Scope of Wipeouts, published in Wipeouts and Their Mitigation: The Changing Context for Land Use and Environment, Chapter 2, by Brian W. Blaesser (Lincoln Institute of Land Policy) (1990)

      "Closing the Federal Courthouse Door on Property Owners: The Ripeness and Abstention Doctrines in Section 1983 Land Use Cases," authored by Brian W. Blaesser, 2 Hofstra Property Law Journal 73 (Spring 1989)

      Land Use and the Constitution, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (1989)

      "Applying Development Design Review in the Downtown," published in Zoning Bonuses in Central Cities, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, APA Planning Advisory Service Report No. 410 (9/1988)

      "Applying the Ripeness Doctrine in Federal Land Use Litigation," authored by Brian W. Blaesser, 11 Zoning Law and Planning Report 49 (July/August 1988)

      "Municipal Liability Under the Fair Housing Act: An Update," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol. 40 No.10 (10/1988)

      "A Miranda Card for Planners," published in Hofstra Property Law Journal, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (Winter 1987)

      Inclusionary Zoning Moves Downtown, authored by Dwight H. Merriam (1985)

      "Legal Implications of Computerized Zoning," published in Zoning News, authored by Brian W. Blaesser (10/1984)

      "Local Government Liability Under the Fair Housing Act and Under State Anti-Exclusionary Zoning Doctrines: Parts I and II," published in Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, authored by Brian W. Blaesser, Vol. 36 Nos. 1 & 2 (January/February 1984)

      "Dwight Merriam Untitled Presentation 2," presented by Dwight H. Merriam, Delivered presentations on conducting public hearings and ethics and professional practice at the Mississippi Chapter of the American Planning Association (10/24/2012)

      "Preparing, Adapting, and Rebuilding: Rising Sea Levels Raise New Legal Issues," published in Probate & Property, a publication of the American Bar Association (11/12/2013)

      presented by Joey Lee Miranda, Contributor to panel discussion on renewable energy development (4/12/2011), presented at the session Sustainability in Connecticut, a joint meeting of the Connecticut Bar Association's Environmental Law Section, Planning and Zoning Section, and Public Utility Law Section

      "Smart Growth: Form and Consequences,"

      "CBA Land Use Case Law and Legislative Update," presented by Thomas P. Cody (6/17/2009)

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